Best Kansas City to Indianapolis Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Kansas City to Indianapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 486 mile move from Kansas to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Kansas City to Indianapolis 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 Kansas City compared to Indianapolis. 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 Kansas City to Indianapolis Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Bulldogs Moving Co.9.129.47Authorized For HHGContact
2God's Movers, LLC9.069.29Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Golden Rule Relocation8.988.75Authorized For HHGContact
4Courtesy Movers LLC8.979.27Authorized For Property, HHGContact
5Soft Touch Moving8.828.86Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Kansas City to Indianapolis

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 486 miles from Kansas City, KS to Indianapolis, IN will cost on average $2,195 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Kansas City to Indianapolis move is roughly $5,254. 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$1,478300 ft³4.93
1 Bedroom$2,195450 ft³4.88
2 Bedrooms$3,620750 ft³4.83
3 Bedrooms$5,2541100 ft³4.78
4 Bedrooms$7,5631600 ft³4.73
5+ Bedrooms$8,4181800 ft³4.68
*Please note: These Kansas to Indiana moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Kansas & Indiana. 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 KS to IN mover.
Kansas iconArrow iconIndiana icon
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indianapolis to Kansas City guide.

Compare the 5 Best Kansas City to Indianapolis Movers

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

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
1
God's Movers, LLC Logo

God's Movers, LLC

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 503+ data points

11815 E 60 St

Kansas City, MO, 64133

About God's Movers, LLC

God’s Movers is a family-owned and operated moving company that has served Greater Kansas City, MO for more than 20 years....

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Cross-country moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2417601 / 946280

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Golden Rule Relocation Logo

Golden Rule Relocation

Superb8.98/10
based on 318+ data points

1600 Swift St # 200

North Kansas City, MO, 64116

About Golden Rule Relocation

Golden Rule Relocation is a premier residential and commercial moving and storage company based in Kansas City, Missouri, and serves the...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Interstate Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3420954 / 1105839

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved30,000 (2022)
View Full Review
3
Courtesy Movers LLC Logo

Courtesy Movers LLC

Superb8.97/10
based on 1,051+ data points

9353 NE 79th St

Kansas City, MO, 64158

About Courtesy Movers LLC

Courtesy Movers LLC is a client-oriented, Kansas City-based company that provides quality moving services at an affordable price. Its priority is...

Services

  • Cheap Moving Services
  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3241776 / 1018373

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2023)
View Full Review
4
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
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.

Kansas City vs. Indianapolis Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're unfamiliar with your new surroundings. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Kansas City, KS & Indianapolis, IN . This guide will help you find a neighborhood in Indianapolis that resonates with the vibe and community you've come to love in Kansas City.

Kansas CityIndianapolisHow They're Similar
RosedaleIrvingtonHistoric charm, artsy vibe
ArmourdaleFountain SquareCultural hub, diverse community
Mission CliffsBroad RippleLively nightlife, eclectic shops
TurnerGarfield ParkFamily-friendly, green spaces
Strawberry HillOld NorthsideHistoric architecture, close-knit community
PiperEagle CreekOutdoorsy, near-the-water living
Westheight ManorMeridian-KesslerStately homes, historic neighborhood
MuncieMass AveTrendy shops, vibrant atmosphere
Stony PointButler-TarkingtonPeaceful, collegiate atmosphere
Victory HillsChatham ArchQuaint, with a touch of urban sophistication

For those who have enjoyed the vibrant community and the mixture of cultural and recreational spaces in Rosedale, Kansas City, you'll find a kindred spirit in Indianapolis's Irvington. With its historic charm and lively arts scene, Irvington offers a chance to immerse yourself in local culture and history. Similarly, lovers of Kansas City's Armourdale for its diverse cultural experiences and community vibe will feel right at home in Fountain Square, Indianapolis. This neighborhood is renowned for its rich cultural scene, featuring eclectic dining options like Kuma's Corner and local art venues. Meanwhile, if the green spaces and family-friendly atmosphere of Turner have captured your heart, Garfield Park in Indianapolis provides an equally engaging environment with lush parklands and community-focused events. Its centerpiece, Garfield Park Conservatory, is a must-visit for nature lovers. These neighborhoods showcase the diverse and enriching experiences waiting for you in your new city.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Kansas City to Indianapolis

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the good against the not-so-good. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of relocating from Kansas City, KS, to Indianapolis, IN . Through detailed charts, you'll see not just the drawbacks but how moving could offer you an upgrade in lifestyle. Let's dive into these comparisons and unearth the specifics of what awaits you in both cities.

CONs
PROs
Kansas City, KS iconKansas City, KS
  • Higher crime rates
  • Less job opportunities
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Fewer cultural events
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Lower crime rates
  • More job opportunities
  • Larger city vibe
  • More cultural events
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Less BBQ culture
  • Fewer jazz clubs
  • Smaller green spaces
  • Higher housing costs
Kansas City, KS iconKansas City, KS
  • Strong BBQ culture
  • Lively jazz scene
  • Extensive parks
  • Affordable housing

When moving from Kansas City, KS to Indianapolis, IN, you're trading a city renowned for its delectable barbecue and vibrant jazz scene for one with a larger urban atmosphere and potentially more professional opportunities. Kansas City boasts spots like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, known for its legendary smoked meats, and the historic American Jazz Museum. On the flip side, Indianapolis greets newcomers with a burgeoning job market in tech and healthcare and boasts a rich cultural scene, including the renowned Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra and vast spaces like White River State Park. While it may have fewer jazz clubs, the city compensates with vibrant neighborhoods like Broad Ripple for nightlife and dining. Each city presents a unique blend of cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities, making the decision a personal one based on your priorities and lifestyle preferences.

Kansas City vs. Indianapolis Food Guide

This comparison of the local cuisine between Kansas City & Indianapolis explores the culinary landscapes of both cities. Understanding food is integral to grasping the local culture and lifestyle of a place. This guide will help you get acquainted with the food scene of your new home.

Kansas CityIndianapolis
Most iconic local food itemBarbecue RibsPork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dishBrisketSugar Cream Pie
Most popular street food itemBurnt EndsElote
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit BBQSeitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que
  • Q39
  • Arthur Bryant's
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Indianapolis, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich stands out as a legendary dish, often found in classic diners and state fairs across the city. When exploring the bustling Maas Avenue or the historic Lockerbie Square, you might encounter food trucks offering an array of innovative and traditional delights, including the city's cherished Elote and vegan-friendly Seitan Wings. For an exceptional dining experience, St. Elmo Steak House is a must-visit, renowned for its rich history and the signature shrimp cocktail. The city's thriving food scene is indicative of Indianapolis's appreciation for both traditional Midwestern flavors and inventive culinary expressions.

Kansas City vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison

Finding the perfect dining spot is crucial in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Kansas City and Indianapolis will guide you to your new favorite eateries, using your current favorites as your culinary compass.

Kansas CityIndianapolisWhat You'll Love
Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-QueHank's Smoked BrisketsSimilar smokehouse vibe with standout brisket
Q39BluebeardCreative BBQ dishes and modern American cuisine
Jack Stack BarbecueGomez BBQGreat BBQ with a focus on quality meat and sauces
The Capital GrilleSt. Elmo Steak HouseBoth offer upscale dining with a focus on steaks
Garozzo's RistoranteMama Carolla's Old Italian RestaurantFamily-owned, authentic Italian vibes
JarochoLiveryBoth serve Latin-inspired seafood dishes in a vibrant atmosphere
BluestemTinker StreetA similar commitment to fine dining and local ingredients
Port FondaLouVinoBoth offer a creative take on their respective cuisines, Mexican and Southern
Antler RoomAmbrosiaBoth known for their globally inspired dishes and cozy atmosphere
GrunauerRathskellerAuthentic German dining experience, great beer selection

Looking for a familiar barbecue taste in Indianapolis? Head to Hank's Smoked Briskets, where you'll find that smoky, tender brisket reminiscent of Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que. For those who relish the fine dining experiences, Indianapolis' St. Elmo Steak House mirrors Kansas City's The Capital Grille in both the upscale atmosphere and the quality of steaks. Lastly, if you're missing the authentic Italian flavors of Garozzo's Ristorante, Mama Carolla's Old Italian Restaurant offers a cozy, family-owned ambiance with dishes that will take your taste buds back to Kansas City.

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Kansas City vs. Indianapolis Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing the real estate aspects of Kansas City, KS and Indianapolis, IN is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs, architectural styles, and the overall lifestyle these cities offer will greatly influence your decision. Here's how they stack up.

ComparisonKansas CityIndianapolis
Typical Architecture StyleTudor, RanchBungalow, Colonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious backyards, garagesProximity to downtown, hardwood floors

In-depth comparison highlights the subtler differences between Kansas City and Indianapolis. For instance, architecture uniquely reflects each city's cultural backdrop—Kansas City leans towards Tudor and ranch styles that offer spacious suburban feels, whereas Indianapolis homes frequently feature bungalow and colonial styles, reflecting a blend of historical and practical aesthetics. Moreover, Indianapolis scores slightly higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, indicative of its denser, more interconnected urban areas. Notably, real estate listings in Indianapolis often boast about being close to the vibrant downtown area, juxtaposing Kansas City's emphasis on spacious backyards and garages, highlighting a difference in lifestyle preferences between the two cities.

Kansas City vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Kansas City, KS to Indianapolis, IN, it's vital to grasp how the weather conditions could impact your day-to-day life. Understanding differences in temperature, humidity, and overall climate can help you prepare for your new environment.

Summer icon
89/68

Kansas City, KS

85/66

Indianapolis, IN

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
39/20

Kansas City, KS

36/22

Indianapolis, IN

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Kansas City, KS

42

Indianapolis, IN

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
18

Kansas City, KS

22

Indianapolis, IN

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonKansas CityIndianapolis
Air QualityModerateModerate
Natural DisastersTornados, FloodsTornados, Winter Storms
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Kansas City and Indianapolis experience all four seasons vividly, you'll notice slightly milder summers but similar winter temperatures after your move. Indianapolis might have fewer sunny days per year, which could affect your outdoor activities. Additionally, the slight increase in average annual humidity and snowfall in Indianapolis compared to Kansas City means a bit more snow in the winter and higher humidity levels throughout the year. Both cities have their unique challenges, such as tornados and seasonal allergies, which remain constant reminders of nature's influence no matter where you live.

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

When preparing to move from Kansas City, KS, to Indianapolis, IN, it's crucial to understand the financial landscape you're heading into. This comparison highlights the nuances in the cost of living, taxes, and economic factors, providing a foundation for a smooth transition.

ComparisonKansas CityIndianapolis
Avg. Household Income$53,884$58,479
Cost of Living Index97.887.2
State Income Tax3.1 to 5.73.23
Avg. Property Tax1.370.87
Avg. Sales Tax9.067.00
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Trade, Health ServicesManufacturing, Health Services, Retail
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertySignificantNoticeable
HomelessnessVisiblePresent

Moving from Kansas City to Indianapolis, you'll find both cities offer a moderate level of affluence with noticeable differences in taxation and living expenses. For instance, Indiana's flat state income tax rate might be more appealing compared to Kansas', which varies by income. Furthermore, the cost of living is slightly lower in Indianapolis, making your daily expenses a bit more manageable. Each city thrives with its top industries, contributing to the local economies. Despite these financial differences, preparing for such changes can significantly affect your relocation experience.

Kansas City vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison

When planning a move from Kansas City, KS, to Indianapolis, IN, understanding the local landscape is crucial. This guide provides a comparison of the politics between Kansas City & Indianapolis as well as a look into the religious makeup of both cities. This quick snapshot aims to help you grasp the community you’re moving into.

Kansas CityIndianapolis
Political Make-upLeans DemocraticLeans Democratic
Local PoliticsProgressive in urban areasMixed, with some conservative suburbs
ReligionChristianity predominant,
diverse religious communities
Christianity predominant,
with growing diverse religious practices

Both Kansas City, KS, and Indianapolis, IN, lean Democratic in their political makeup, reflecting their status as urban centers within their respective states. However, the local political landscape in Indianapolis shows a bit more variation, with a mix of conservative influences, especially in some of the surrounding suburbs, compared to the generally progressive atmosphere of downtown Kansas City. On the religious front, while Christianity remains the predominant faith in both cities, you'll find a rich tapestry of faith communities, including various denominations and non-Christian religions. This diversity adds to the cultural richness of both locales, influencing everything from local festivals to community events.

Kansas City vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Kansas City, KS to Indianapolis, IN? Understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Kansas City & Indianapolis is crucial for navigating your daily commute efficiently. This guide helps you grasp what to expect when you hit the road or opt for public transit in your new city.

ComparisonKansas CityIndianapolis
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2325
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingModerately possible

In both Kansas City and Indianapolis, having a car enhances mobility significantly, yet each city uniquely manages its transit systems. Kansas City's commute time slightly bests Indianapolis', suggesting marginally faster movement within the city. However, Indianapolis edges out with better public transit availability, making living without a car more feasible than in Kansas City. Though neither city boasts a highly rated public transport system, Indianapolis offers a slightly more amenable environment for those preferring to use public transit or cycle. Adjusting your commute expectations and exploring local transit options, such as IndyGo in Indianapolis, can make your transition smoother.

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