Best Indianapolis to Buffalo Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Indianapolis to Buffalo and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 504 mile move from Indiana to New York go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Indianapolis to Buffalo 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 Bulldogs Moving Co.), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Indianapolis compared to Buffalo. 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 Buffalo Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Wayfinder Moving Services | 9.03 | 8.92 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Joey Z's Moving | 8.90 | 8.66 | Active | 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 Buffalo
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 504 miles from Indianapolis, IN to Buffalo, NY will cost on average $2,210 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Indianapolis to Buffalo move is roughly $5,292. 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 | $1,488 | 300 ft³ | 4.96 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,210 | 450 ft³ | 4.91 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,646 | 750 ft³ | 4.86 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,292 | 1100 ft³ | 4.81 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,617 | 1600 ft³ | 4.76 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,479 | 1800 ft³ | 4.71 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Buffalo to Indianapolis guide.
Compare the 5 Best Indianapolis to Buffalo Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Wayfinder Moving Services
75 Comet Ave
Buffalo, NY, 14216
About Wayfinder Moving Services
Established in 2018, Wayfinder Moving Services has locations in both Buffalo, NY and Jamestown. As a business that specializes in...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3104397 / 79366 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
| Registered Drivers | 9 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 220,000 (2022) |
Joey Z's Moving
North Tonawanda, NY, 14120
About Joey Z's Moving
Backed by over 35 years of experience, Joey Z’s Moving serves all of New York State with reliable residential and commercial...
Services
- Home & Apartment moving
- Senior Moves
- Business & Office moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3348965 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
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. Buffalo Neighborhood Comparison
Discovering a new city can be daunting, but comparing it to somewhere familiar can help. This guide draws parallels between Indianapolis, IN & Buffalo, NY neighborhoods, providing a framework to understand your new surroundings by referencing the familiar.
| Indianapolis | Buffalo | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Broad Ripple | Elmwood Village | Vibrant arts scene and eclectic shops |
| Meridian-Kessler | Parkside | Historic homes, community feel |
| Fountain Square | Allentown | Bohemian vibe, indie businesses |
| Carmel | Williamsville | Affluent, family-friendly |
| Fishers | Snyder | Suburban tranquility, good schools |
| Zionsville | East Aurora | Charming, historic downtown area |
| Mass Ave | West Side | Diverse, emerging arts scene |
| Irvington | North Buffalo | Residential, historic architecture |
| Whitestown | Kenmore | Growing, community-oriented |
| Beech Grove | Kaisertown | Quaint, traditional feel with local businesses |
Whether you're trading the artistic lanes of Broad Ripple for the similar vibes of Elmwood Village, with its plethora of indie shops and cultural festivals, or comparing the historic charm of Meridian-Kessler to Parkside's beautifully preserved architecture and tight-knit community feel, each neighborhood transition holds something unique. Elmwood Village, for example, boasts the renowned Albright-Knox Art Gallery and ultra-hip coffee shops like SPoT Coffee, echoing Broad Ripple's vibrant cultural scene and popular hangouts such as Brick House Coffee. In Parkside, you'll find intriguing parallels to Meridian-Kessler in the form of architectural tours and an abundance of green space, notably around Delaware Park, mirroring the homey and scenic atmosphere of the Indianapolis area.
Things to Do in Buffalo
Explore Albright-Knox Art Gallery- Watch a game at Sahlen Field
- Visit Buffalo Zoo
- Stroll through Botanical Gardens
- Enjoy Niagara Falls tour
- Skate at Canalside
- Taste wings at Anchor Bar
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Buffalo
Moving from one city to another brings its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Indianapolis, IN to Buffalo, NY . By evaluating both the pros and cons, you can make a well-informed decision that takes into account all aspects of such a significant change.
Indianapolis, IN- Less snowy winters
- Smaller cultural scene
- Fewer waterfront areas
- Lower food diversity
Buffalo, NY- More snowy winters
- Larger cultural scene
- Access to Lake Erie
- Greater food diversity
Buffalo, NY- Smaller city
- Fewer job opportunities
- Lesser sports culture
- Fewer parks and green spaces
Indianapolis, IN- Larger city
- More job opportunities
- Better sports culture
- More parks and green spaces
When moving from Indianapolis to Buffalo, one of the most noticeable differences you'll experience is in the winter weather. Buffalo's proximity to Lake Erie means you'll have access to stunning waterfronts such as Canalside and opportunities for winter sports that aren't as readily available in Indianapolis. The cultural scene in Buffalo also offers a massive upgrade, with venues like the renowned Albright-Knox Art Gallery and a thriving food scene that includes the famous Anchor Bar - the birthplace of the Buffalo wing. Though Buffalo is considered smaller in terms of population, the city punches above its weight in terms of job opportunities, especially in the education and healthcare sectors, not to mention a lively sports culture centered around the Buffalo Bills and Sabres. In contrast, while Indianapolis does offer larger city perks, those moving to Buffalo will find a tight-knit community with the charm of a smaller town but the amenities of a larger city.
Indianapolis vs. Buffalo Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Buffalo to give you a taste of the culinary landscape of your future home. Food is a significant part of local culture, affecting daily life and social scenes. Understanding the culinary differences will help you transition more smoothly.
| Indianapolis | Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Buffalo Wings |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked BBQ Ribs | Beef on Weck |
| Most popular street food item | Elote | Pierogi |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Curry | Vegan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from Indianapolis to Buffalo, you'll transition from a love of hearty meat dishes like the famous Pork Tenderloin Sandwich to Buffalo’s quintessential Buffalo Wings. In Indianapolis, neighborhoods like Fletcher Place and Broad Ripple boast innovative eateries like Milktooth and Bluebeard. However, upon arriving in Buffalo, the Elmwood Village and Allentown areas await with their own iconic spots such as Anchor Bar, the birthplace of Buffalo wings, and Gabriel's Gate, known for its cozy, historical ambiance. The shift also brings you closer to a more vegan-friendly scene, with establishments offering creative plant-based versions of local classics, highlighting the adaptability and diversity of Buffalo's culinary landscape.
Indianapolis vs. Buffalo Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering its cuisine. This restaurant comparison guide between Indianapolis and Buffalo aims to ease your transition, helping you pinpoint locales in Buffalo that echo the culinary charm of your current Indy favorites. Whether you're craving a high-end dining experience or a cozy plate from a beloved diner, Let's embark on this flavorful journey from Indianapolis to Buffalo.
| Indianapolis | Buffalo | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| St. Elmo Steak House | Russell's Steaks, Chops, and More | Both are renowned for their upscale steak dining experience. |
| Bluebeard | Tempo Restaurant | Offering a creative and modern dining approach with Italian influences. |
| Milktooth | Five Points Bakery and Toast Cafe | Both excel in breakfast and brunch, offering unique takes on traditional morning fare. |
| The Eagle | Allen Burger Venture | Known for their comfort food and casual dining atmosphere, with an emphasis on quality ingredients. |
| Beholder | Marble + Rye | A focus on innovative cuisine and cocktail pairings in a modern, chic space. |
| Café Patachou | Breadhive Bakery & Cafe | Both provide a cozy atmosphere and specialize in sandwiches and wholesome dishes. |
| Goose The Market | Public Espresso + Coffee | Similar in their dedication to high-quality, local ingredients for sandwiches and coffee. |
| Mesh | Black Sheep | A place for contemporary dining, focusing on seasonal menus and local produce. |
| BRU Burger Bar | ABV | They excel in crafting gourmet burgers with an extensive selection of craft beers. |
| Iozzo's Garden of Italy | Osteria 166 | Both offer a cozy and inviting Italian dining experience with a focus on traditional dishes. |
In places like Russell's Steaks, Chops, and More in Buffalo, you'll find that the commitment to a high-quality steak dining experience mirrors that of St. Elmo Steak House, but with a unique Buffalo twist. If you’re after a more eclectic and modern dining atmosphere, Tempo Restaurant and Marble + Rye stand as Buffalo’s answers to Indy’s Bluebeard and Beholder, blending creative cuisine with stylish surroundings. For those who cherish a cozy breakfast nook, Five Points Bakery and Toast Cafe offers a similar charm and inventive morning dishes akin to what you’d find at Milktooth. This comparison not only uncovers Buffalo's culinary gems but also reassures that the essence of your Indianapolis dining favorites can be rediscovered in the heart of Buffalo.
Ready to start your move?
Indianapolis vs. Buffalo Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate remains a crucial factor in any relocation journey. Understanding how Indianapolis and Buffalo compare in various housing characteristics could streamline your moving decisions. This guide focuses on housing cost, architecture, walkability, and other metrics to paint a clear picture of your potential new home.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Craftsman | Victorian, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, Garages | Historic details, Accessibility |
When comparing Indianapolis and Buffalo, it's evident that each city holds unique appeal in the housing market. Indianapolis offers more modern dwellings with an emphasis on spacious yards and garages, catering to those who value privacy and storage. Alternatively, Buffalo's real estate market prides itself on historic charm and accessibility, highlighting Victorian and Craftsman-style homes that echo the city's rich history. Although Buffalo has a slightly higher cost of living in terms of median monthly rent, it compensates with a stronger emphasis on walkability and bikeability, which could be advantageous for those seeking an urban lifestyle with easier access to local amenities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Buffalo, NY
1. Elmwood Village: Known for its walkable streets and the Elmwood Village Farmers Market, where you can often find pet-friendly vendors and plenty of space for your furry friends to explore.
2. Allentown: This vibrant neighborhood not only boasts a variety of pet-friendly dining options but is also home to the Allentown Association, which organizes events that are welcoming to pets.
3. Hertel Avenue: Famous for its Hertel Avenue Poutine & Cream, which offers outdoor seating where pets are welcome, and its close proximity to several parks where you can enjoy a day out with your pet.
Indianapolis vs. Buffalo Weather Considerations
When preparing for a move from Indianapolis, IN, to Buffalo, NY, understanding the differences in weather conditions is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight how your daily life and seasonal activities might shift. Weather comparison between Indianapolis and Buffalo is essential for planning ahead and ensuring a smooth transition to your new environment.
Indianapolis, IN
Buffalo, NY
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Buffalo, NY
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Buffalo, NY
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Indianapolis, IN
Buffalo, NY
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornados, Floods | Snowstorms, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Indianapolis and Buffalo share similarities in humidity levels and top seasonal allergies, the stark difference in annual snowfall stands out – Buffalo experiences over four times the snowfall of Indianapolis. This significant shift means you'll need to prepare for more robust winter weather activities and possibly adjust daily commutes or travel plans during the winter months. Additionally, the lesser number of sunny days in Buffalo might affect your outdoor activities, suggesting a possible need to find more indoor hobbies or ways to enjoy the winter landscape.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Indianapolis to Buffalo
When planning a move from Indianapolis to Buffalo, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, taxes, and economic factors between Indianapolis and Buffalo, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $58,479 | $40,669 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.2 | 95.8 |
| State Income Tax | 3.23 | 6.33 to 8.82 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.87 | 1.68 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7 | 8.75 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | moderate | lower |
| Poverty | lower | higher |
| Homelessness | moderate | concerning |
Moving from Indianapolis to Buffalo, you'll likely notice a significant difference in the cost of living and tax rates. Although the average household income in Indianapolis is higher, Buffalo offers a lower cost of living index, which could help balance your finances. However, the state income tax in New York varies and can be higher than Indiana's fixed rate. Both cities share healthcare and manufacturing as leading industries, but the economic landscape in Buffalo is slightly more challenging, with higher poverty and homelessness rates. This information could be vital in planning your budget and expectations for your new life in Buffalo.
Indianapolis vs. Buffalo Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider moving from Indianapolis, IN to Buffalo, NY, understanding the comparison of the politics between Indianapolis & Buffalo as well as the religious makeup of each city can provide you with an insightful glimpse into the community you're about to join. This quick snapshot aims to help you gauge the general atmosphere of both locations.
| Indianapolis | Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderately progressive urban policies | Progressive urban policies |
| Religion | Christianity dominant, with a mix of other faiths | Christianity prevalent, diverse religious communities |
In terms of political makeup, both Indianapolis and Buffalo lean toward Democratic values, with Buffalo typically exhibiting a stronger Democratic orientation. This could influence local policies and the overall community vibe. Buffalo is known for its progressive stances on urban development and social issues, potentially a bit more pronounced than what you've experienced in Indianapolis. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, with Christianity being the predominant faith. However, both cities celebrate religious diversity, hosting various places of worship that cater to multiple faiths. Understanding these dynamics can help you anticipate the cultural and social climate of your new home.
Indianapolis vs. Buffalo Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Indianapolis, IN to Buffalo, NY brings about many changes, including in the way you commute daily. This guide will help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, offering a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Buffalo.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Buffalo |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Moderately possible |
When it comes to commuting in Buffalo as opposed to Indianapolis, you might find yourself pleasantly surprised by the slight ease in daily travel. Although both cities have their challenges, Buffalo offers a somewhat better scenario with shorter average commute times and a bit lower traffic congestion. The availability of public transit in Buffalo, rated slightly higher than Indianapolis, means if you're considering leaving the car behind on occasion, this city facilitates that choice a bit more feasibly. It's crucial to consider these factors, because they can significantly impact your daily life, possibly freeing up more time for leisure or letting you explore Buffalo's diverse neighborhoods and attractions more freely.
Additional Resources
Indianapolis Moving Services
Popular Indianapolis to New York Routes
Popular Moving Resources
