Best Indianapolis to Chattanooga Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Indianapolis to Chattanooga and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 418 mile move from Indiana to Tennessee go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Indianapolis to Chattanooga 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 Boundless Moving & Storage), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Indianapolis compared to Chattanooga. 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.

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Best Indianapolis to Chattanooga Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Boundless Moving & Storage9.339.36Authorized For Property, HHGContact
2Bulldogs Moving Co.9.129.47Authorized For HHGContact
3Smooth Moving & Storage8.938.63Authorized For HHGContact
4Soft Touch Moving8.828.86Authorized For HHGContact
5You Move Me Indianapolis8.758.32Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Indianapolis to Chattanooga

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 418 miles from Indianapolis, IN to Chattanooga, TN will cost on average $2,137 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Indianapolis to Chattanooga move is roughly $5,113. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,439300 ft³4.80
1 Bedroom$2,137450 ft³4.75
2 Bedrooms$3,524750 ft³4.70
3 Bedrooms$5,1131100 ft³4.65
4 Bedrooms$7,3571600 ft³4.60
5+ Bedrooms$8,1871800 ft³4.55
*Please note: These Indiana to Tennessee moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Indiana & Tennessee. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed IN to TN mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chattanooga to Indianapolis guide.

Compare the 5 Best Indianapolis to Chattanooga Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Boundless Moving & Storage Logo

Boundless Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.33/10
based on 1,378+ data points

5595 N. Lee Hwy

Cleveland, TN, 37312

About Boundless Moving & Storage

Boundless Moving is a local, family-owned moving company near Chattanooga, TN. Established in 2015, it is located in Cleveland and offers...

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2798532 / 934519

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans8
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved358,520 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Bulldogs Moving Co. Logo

Bulldogs Moving Co.

Exceptional9.12/10
based on 553+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3784131 / 1472268

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Smooth Moving & Storage Logo

Smooth Moving & Storage

Superb8.93/10
based on 346+ data points

3620 Trousdale Dr

Nashville, TN, 37204

About Smooth Moving & Storage

Smooth Moving & Storage is a full-service moving and storage company based in Nashville, Tennessee, offering professional, reliable, and stress-free moving...

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Residential moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2472874 / 1244900

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
3
Soft Touch Moving Logo

Soft Touch Moving

Superb8.82/10
based on 174+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 5/20/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

707793 / 331362

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
You Move Me Indianapolis Logo

You Move Me Indianapolis

Superb8.75/10
based on 1,372+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3821121 / 1382732

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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. Chattanooga Neighborhood Comparison

Making a move to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. To ease the transition, this guide offers a unique approach by comparing popular neighborhoods in Indianapolis, IN & Chattanooga, TN . By using what you know about your current city as a baseline, we'll help you find a neighborhood in your new city that feels like home.

IndianapolisChattanoogaHow They're Similar
Broad RippleNorthShoreVibrant arts and dining scene
Meridian-KesslerSignal MountainHistoric homes, family-friendly
Fountain SquareSouthsideEclectic entertainment and eateries
Fletcher PlaceSt. ElmoCharming, smaller scale neighborhood vibe
IrvingtonHighland ParkHistoric with a strong sense of community
Mass AveMain StreetArtsy with a bustling nightlife
ZionsvilleLookout MountainUpscale, serene, with natural beauty
CarmelOoltewahFamily-oriented with excellent amenities
WarfleighRiverviewQuiet, scenic, with access to parks
Butler-TarkingtonBrainerdHistoric with a laid-back lifestyle

For those who thrive in the dynamic atmosphere of Broad Ripple, with its unique blend of boutiques, bars, and cultural venues, Chattanooga's NorthShore offers a similar vibe, complete with an expansive arts scene and waterfront parks like Coolidge Park. If the historic and upscale residential setting of Meridian-Kessler has been your home, Signal Mountain could be your next haven, boasting grand historic homes and top-rated schools, akin to the Meridian-Kessler vibes. Enthusiasts of Fountain Square's eclectic mix of live music venues, indie restaurants, and vibrant nightlife will find a kindred spirit in Chattanooga's Southside, where the revitalized warehouse district pulses with creative energy and an inventive food scene. Exploring these beloved neighborhoods offers a glimpse into the diverse, yet interconnected threads that weave the rich tapestry of community life in both these cities.

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Things to Do in Chattanooga

  • Explore Tennessee Aquarium
  • Hike Lookout Mountain
  • Visit Ruby Falls
  • Ride the Incline Railway
  • Stroll through Bluff View Art District
  • Shop at Chattanooga Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Chattanooga

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the pros and cons to reveal an honest reflection of the transition between Indianapolis, IN, and Chattanooga, TN. This comparison aims to provide a clear perspective on the changes you might experience, highlighting the positive and negative aspects of such a relocation.

CONs
PROs
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Colder Winters
  • Higher Crime Rates
  • Less Outdoor Activities
  • Less Scenic Views
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Milder Winters
  • Lower Crime Rates
  • More Outdoor Activities
  • Stunning Mountain Views
Chattanooga, TN iconChattanooga, TN
  • Fewer Job Opportunities
  • Fewer Cultural Venues
  • Smaller City
  • Less Public Transport
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • More Job Opportunities
  • More Cultural Venues
  • Larger City Benefits
  • Better Public Transportation

While moving from Indianapolis to Chattanooga, you'll notice a stark contrast in natural surroundings and recreational opportunities. Chattanooga offers direct access to mountains and rivers, such as the stunning views from Lookout Mountain and the vast network of trails at Signal Mountain, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is known for its vibrant neighborhoods like NorthShore and the Southside, which host a variety of local restaurants, shops, and annual festivals. Chattanooga's downtown Riverwalk, a 13-mile paved path along the Tennessee River, is perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides, offering scenic views and access to the Tennessee Aquarium and the Hunter Museum of American Art. This move could significantly impact your lifestyle, offering a balance of urban and outdoor living.

Indianapolis vs. Chattanooga Food Guide

Understanding the local food culture is a delicious part of getting to know your new home. Whether you're excited for new tastes or curious about daily meals, comparing the culinary scenes of two cities can be enlightening. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Chattanooga, aimed at helping you feel more at home with the food scene in your new city.

IndianapolisChattanooga
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichChattanooga Whiskey BBQ Sauce
Most popular meat dishBeef BrisketFried Catfish
Most popular street food itemElotesStreet Tacos
Most popular vegan foodSeitan WingsBBQ Jackfruit
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Bluebeard
  • Milktooth
  • Aretha Frankenstein’s
  • Allen's Grill
  • Public House
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Indianapolis, the pork tenderloin sandwich reigns supreme, found in many local diners and eateries across the city, with St. Elmo Steak House being a must-visit for anyone wanting to dive deep into the city's culinary offerings. Chattanooga, on the other hand, prides itself on a unique infusion of traditional Southern flavors with a modern twist, as seen in dishes like BBQ Jackfruit, a popular vegan option that mirrors the city’s openness to dietary diversity. Here, Aretha Frankenstein’s not only serves up iconic breakfasts but also captures the inventive spirit of Chattanooga's food scene. Whether you're exploring Indianapolis's vibrant food truck gatherings or Chattanooga's scenic riverside dining, each city offers a distinctively savory journey tailored to a variety of palates.

Indianapolis vs. Chattanooga Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making a place feel like home. This guide is designed to ease the transition by comparing top restaurants in Indianapolis to their Chattanooga counterparts, helping you discover your next favorite spot to dine. Whether you're craving high-end dining, casual eats, or unique culinary experiences, this comparison will guide you from the familiar flavors of Indianapolis to new adventures in Chattanooga.

IndianapolisChattanoogaWhat You'll Love
St. Elmo Steak HouseAlleiaUpscale Italian dining with a similar dedication to quality ingredients and memorable meals.
BluebeardEasy Bistro & BarBoth offer innovative, chef-driven menus in a chic, modern setting.
MilktoothAretha Frankenstein’sBoth are beloved for their unique and creative approach to breakfast and brunch dishes.
The EagleChampy’s Famous Fried ChickenBoth are known for their mouthwatering chicken dishes in a casual, lively atmosphere.
Shapiro’s DelicatessenKenny’s Southside SandwichesBoth spots are go-tos for hearty sandwiches and deli classics.
Café PatachouMean Mug CoffeehouseSimilar cozy vibes and a commitment to serving up quality, comforting breakfast and lunch dishes.
Tinker StreetSt. John’s RestaurantBoth provide a fine dining experience with a focus on seasonality and local sourcing.
RookMain Street MeatsWhile Rook focuses on Asian fusion, Main Street Meats offers a similar commitment to innovative dishes and quality meats.
FestivaTaconoogaBoth are known for their authentic, flavorful takes on Latin American cuisine in a vibrant, friendly setting.
BeholderPublic HouseBoth spots are celebrated for their refined yet approachable menus and commitment to local, seasonal ingredients.

When you move from Indianapolis to Chattanooga, you don't have to leave your culinary preferences behind. For example, fans of innovative breakfast and brunch in Indianapolis at Milktooth will find comfort in the quirky and inventive offerings of Aretha Frankenstein’s in Chattanooga. If your palate leans towards refined dining experiences, the transition from Tinker Street's meticulously crafted seasonal menus to St. John’s Restaurant's focus on local sourcing and seasonality in Chattanooga will be seamless. Chattanooga's culinary scene mirrors the vibrancy and diversity of Indianapolis's, ensuring your dining experiences continue to be adventurous and fulfilling.

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Ready to start your move?

Indianapolis vs. Chattanooga Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences relocation decisions. Understanding how Indianapolis and Chattanooga compare in terms of housing costs, styles, and lifestyle can highlight the best choice for your move.

ComparisonIndianapolisChattanooga
Typical Architecture StyleMid-century ModernVictorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, Close to schoolsNear parks, Mountain views

When comparing Indianapolis and Chattanooga, note the higher median home price in Chattanooga, likely influenced by its scenic mountain views and historic Victorian architecture—a contrast to Indianapolis’ mid-century modern styles. This difference also reflects in lifestyle scores, with Chattanooga leading in walkability and bikeability, thanks to its natural landscapes and extensive parks. Indianapolis, however, is not far behind, offering spacious living and a variety of urban amenities like the Indianapolis Museum of Art and multiple urban trails, making it a contender for those valuing space and cultural venues.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chattanooga, TN

1. North Shore: Your furry friend will love exploring the spacious Renaissance Park and cooling off in the designated dog areas.

2. St. Elmo: This neighborhood is ideal for pet owners with its easy access to the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, offering plenty of trails and green spaces for your pets to enjoy.

3. Highland Park: Known for its friendly community and walkable streets, you and your pet can enjoy daily walks to local pet-friendly cafes and the nearby Warner Park.

Indianapolis vs. Chattanooga Weather Considerations

Moving from one location to another requires an understanding of various factors, with climate being a significant one. Comparing the weather from Indianapolis, IN to Chattanooga, TN provides insights into what you can expect in terms of temperature, humidity, sunlight, and more, enabling you to adjust more easily to your new environment.

Summer icon
85/65

Indianapolis, IN

89/69

Chattanooga, TN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35/20

Indianapolis, IN

50/30

Chattanooga, TN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Indianapolis, IN

52

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Indianapolis, IN

3

Chattanooga, TN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIndianapolisChattanooga
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, TornadoesTornadoes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In comparing the weather patterns between Indianapolis and Chattanooga, you'll find significant differences that could affect your day-to-day life. Chattanooga enjoys more sunshine days per year and milder winters, making it an appealing choice for those who prefer a warmer climate with less snowfall. However, it also receives more annual rainfall and has a slightly higher UV index, indicating more exposure to sunlight. Both cities share similar concerns for seasonal allergies, primarily due to pollen and mold. Adjusting to Chattanooga may mean enjoying longer outdoor seasons but also preparing for more humid summers and potentially more rain.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Indianapolis to Chattanooga

When considering a move from Indianapolis, IN to Chattanooga, TN, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will give you insight into what to expect in terms of living expenses and economic conditions. Specifically, we'll examine key finance-related factors including average household income, cost of living, taxes, and more in Indianapolis and Chattanooga.

ComparisonIndianapolisChattanooga
Avg. Household Income$58,479$55,065
Cost of Living Index87.291.1
State Income Tax3.230 (TN has no state income tax)
Avg. Property Tax0.870.74
Avg. Sales Tax79.25
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Health Care, RetailManufacturing, Health Care, Tourism
AffluenceModerateComparative
PovertyConspicuousNotable
HomelessnessPresentLesser

When comparing Indianapolis and Chattanooga, a key takeaway is the absence of state income tax in Tennessee, which may offer more net income despite Chattanooga's lower average household income. However, that advantage might be offset by Chattanooga's higher average sales tax rate. The cost of living index is remarkably similar between the two cities, suggesting that day-to-day expenses won't feel vastly different, although real estate taxes tend to be more favorable in Chattanooga. Both cities have strong healthcare and manufacturing sectors, but Chattanooga has the added dimension of tourism as a major industry, which can offer unique job opportunities.

Indianapolis vs. Chattanooga Political & Religious Comparison

This is a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Indianapolis & Chattanooga, designed to give you a quick, at-a-glance understanding of the political leanings and religious affiliations predominant in each city.

IndianapolisChattanooga
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Republican
Local PoliticsProgressive in Urban AreasConservative, with some Progressive Pockets
ReligionChristian majority, with diverse religious communitiesStrong Christian majority, particularly Evangelical

Moving from Indianapolis to Chattanooga, you'll find a significant shift not only in the political landscape but also in the religious makeup. While Indianapolis has a notable lean towards the Democratic Party, especially in its urban cores, Chattanooga tends to lean more Republican, reflecting Tennessee's broader political stance. However, Chattanooga is not without its progressive pockets, often associated with the city's younger population or around university areas. On the religious front, both cities host a Christian majority. Still, Indianapolis presents a more diverse religious landscape, including Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, and Buddhist communities, alongside its numerous Christian denominations. Chattanooga is predominantly Christian, with a notable emphasis on Evangelical denominations, which can influence the city's cultural and social dynamics.

Indianapolis vs. Chattanooga Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When considering a move from Indianapolis, IN to Chattanooga, TN, it's crucial to understand the differences in driving and transiting between these two cities. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Chattanooga will help you gauge what your daily commute and traffic experiences might be like.

ComparisonIndianapolisChattanooga
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2523
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingPossible, but limited

In Indianapolis, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Chattanooga. However, traffic congestion in Indianapolis is perceived to be more intensive, which might contribute to these longer commute times. While Indianapolis offers a broader availability of public transit options, making it moderately easier to get around without a car, Chattanooga's smaller scale could make its less comprehensive public transit system feel sufficient for its residents. Nonetheless, both cities present challenges for residents attempting to live without personal vehicles, underscoring the importance of planning your commute and considering proximity to essential amenities when selecting a new home.

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