Best Durham to Indianapolis Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Durham to Indianapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 602 mile move from North Carolina to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Durham 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 Raleigh Moving Company), 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 Durham 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.
Best Durham to Indianapolis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.82 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Durham to Indianapolis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 602 miles from Durham, NC to Indianapolis, IN will cost on average $2,293 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Durham to Indianapolis move is roughly $5,495. 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 | $1,544 | 300 ft³ | 5.15 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,293 | 450 ft³ | 5.10 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,784 | 750 ft³ | 5.05 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,495 | 1100 ft³ | 5.00 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,913 | 1600 ft³ | 4.95 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,813 | 1800 ft³ | 4.90 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indianapolis to Durham guide.
Compare the 5 Best Durham to Indianapolis Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (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) |
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.
Durham vs. Indianapolis Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting task, especially to an unknown city. To ease the transition, we’ve crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Durham, NC & Indianapolis, IN . This guide is designed to help you find a new neighborhood in Indianapolis that mirrors your current one in Durham, making the unknown familiar.
| Durham | Indianapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Treyburn | Meridian-Kessler | Historic homes, community-driven |
| Trinity Park | Old Northside | Vintage charm, active neighborhood association |
| Watts-Hillandale | Broad Ripple | Artsy, vibrant nightlife |
| Hope Valley | Meridian Hills | Upscale, golf courses |
| Warehouse District | Fountain Square | Eclectic, arts and music scene |
| Old West Durham | Irvington | Historic, community-centric |
| Downtown Durham | Downtown Indianapolis | Bustling, urban amenities |
| Cleveland-Holloway | Lockerbie Square | Historic, close-knit community |
| American Tobacco District | Mass Ave | Cultural hub, dining and shopping |
| Forest Hills | Butler-Tarkington | Serene, family-friendly |
For those moving from Durham's vibrant Watts-Hillandale with its community events and laid-back vibe, Indianapolis's Broad Ripple will feel like home with its rich arts scene, popular Broad Ripple Park, and bustling nightlife. Similarly, if the historic charm and engaging community of Trinity Park are what you love, Old Northside in Indianapolis offers a similar experience, with its beautifully preserved homes and active Old Northside Neighborhood Association. Meanwhile, Durham’s American Tobacco District, known for its thriving entertainment scene and trendy eateries, finds its match in Indianapolis's Mass Ave, where cultural offerings abound alongside fashionable dining spots like The Eagle and unique shopping experiences. These comparisons highlight how each Indianapolis neighborhood mirrors Durham's best traits, from family-friendly atmospheres to cultural richness, ensuring a smooth transition to your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Durham to Indianapolis
Moving homes always entails a constellation of decisions: weighing the familiar against the allure of the new. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection on the transition from Durham, NC to Indianapolis, IN , highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of such a move. Understand the character of each city through their contrasts, to make an informed choice about your next chapter.
Durham, NC- Smaller city vibe
- Higher humidity
- Less diverse sports scene
- More expensive groceries
Indianapolis, IN- Larger urban area
- More temperate summers
- Rich sports culture
- Lower cost of living
Indianapolis, IN- Smaller arts community
- Fewer educational institutions
- More impersonal
- Less historical depth
Durham, NC- Lively arts scene
- Thriving academic environment
- Tight-knit community
- Rich historical heritage
While both Durham and Indianapolis offer unique appeals, the nature of their charms differs greatly. In Durham, the presence of prestigious universities like Duke infuses the city with a vibrant academic atmosphere and opportunities for intellectual engagement. Its historical roots, manifest in sites like the Brightleaf District, offer a glimpse into the past coupled with boutique shopping and dining experiences. On the move to Indianapolis, you'll find a broader urban experience. The city's rich sports culture is buoyed by institutions like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and the fervor around the NFL's Colts. Furthermore, Indianapolis' expanding culinary scene, with areas like Mass Ave and Fletcher Place, showcases a growing foodie culture that rivals any city. The choice between Durham and Indianapolis might come down to what aspects of city life you value most—be it the intimate community and academic vibrancy of Durham or the dynamic urban growth and diverse entertainment options of Indianapolis.
Durham vs. Indianapolis Food Guide
Food significantly impacts the local culture and living experience in any area. To assist you in understanding what culinary delights await in your new city, we will compare the local cuisine between Durham, NC, and Indianapolis, IN . This overview offers insights into both cities' unique food scenes, helping you navigate your upcoming move with more flavor.
| Durham | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Carolina-style BBQ pork | Pork tenderloin sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked brisket | Beef and noodles |
| Most popular street food item | Food truck tacos | Fried pickles |
| Most popular vegan food | Jackfruit barbecue | Seitan hot wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Durham, the vibrant food scene is a delightful exploration of Southern cuisine with a modern twist, notably in areas like Brightleaf and the American Tobacco District. Carolina-style BBQ pork from local haunts such as The Pit stands out as an iconic dish, celebrated for its unique vinegar-based sauce. On the other hand, Indianapolis offers a hearty Midwest culinary experience with dishes like the pork tenderloin sandwich taking center stage, especially at establishments like St. Elmo Steak House. Both cities boast a rich food culture, but Indianapolis, with areas like Fletcher Place and Mass Ave, presents a slightly different flair, emphasizing classic American comfort foods alongside innovative dining experiences.
Durham vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison
Transitioning to a new city isn't just about finding a place to live; it's about discovering where you'll enjoy eating out, too. This restaurant comparison will help acclimate you to your new surroundings by matching your favorite Durham eateries with Indianapolis counterparts. This purposeful chart compares top Durham restaurants to their Indianapolis equivalents, ensuring your culinary transition is as flavorful and seamless as possible.
| Durham | Indianapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| NanaSteak | St. Elmo Steak House | Iconic steakhouse experience |
| Mateo Bar de Tapas | Barcelona Tapas | Authentic Spanish tapas and lively atmosphere |
| Pizzeria Toro | Goodfellas Pizzeria | Neapolitan-inspired thin crust pizzas |
| Dame's Chicken & Waffles | Maxine's Chicken & Waffles | Soul food with a cozy feel |
| Bull City Burger and Brewery | The Mug | Farm-to-table burgers and beers |
| M Sushi | Blue Sushi Sake Grill | Fresh, inventive sushi plates and a vibrant bar scene |
| Guglhupf Bakery, Café & Biergarten | Rathskeller | German cuisine and beer in a festive setting |
| Toast Paninoteca | Cafe Patachou | Gourmet sandwiches and a community-focused cafe |
| Fosters Market | Public Greens | Urban Kitchen with a mission-driven approach |
| Elmo's Diner | Lincoln Square Pancake House | Classic diner with a homely feel |
Durham and Indianapolis may be miles apart, but the culinary excitement found in Indy's dining scene can evoke the flavors of Durham's top spots. Transitioning from Dame's Chicken & Waffles in Durham to Maxine's Chicken & Waffles in Indianapolis offers a familiar yet uniquely satisfying comfort food experience, where the soulful atmosphere matches the heartwarming dishes. Similarly, the transition from enjoying sophisticated sushi rolls at M Sushi can be smoothly navigated by visiting Blue Sushi Sake Grill in Indianapolis, where the creativity of the sushi chefs and the dynamism of the bar scene mirror the vibrant culinary adventure found back in Durham. These parallel dining experiences not only bridge the gap between the two cities but also ensure that your food journey remains exciting and diversified.
Ready to start your move?
Durham vs. Indianapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a critical component when planning a move. Understanding how housing aspects such as cost, walkability, and architecture compare between Durham, NC and Indianapolis, IN is essential. This comparison aims to highlight these key differences to help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Durham | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Colonial | Victorian, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Green spaces, Proximity to universities | Historic neighborhoods, Downtown access |
In dissecting the housing market between Durham and Indianapolis, several facets stand out. Durham's closeness to top-tier universities such as Duke significantly influences its real estate listings, with an emphasis on green spaces and academic proximity. On the other hand, Indianapolis flaunts its historic neighborhoods and easy downtown access, catering to those seeking an urban lifestyle. Specifically, the lower median home price and rent in Indianapolis could be a major draw for potential movers, offering a more affordable entry into city life without sacrificing the benefits of urban living, such as bikeability and access to downtown amenities.
Durham vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Durham, NC to Indianapolis, IN, understanding how the weather compares is crucial. This comparison will help you adapt to your new environment more efficiently by highlighting differences in temperature, sunshine, and seasonal patterns between the Durham and Indianapolis areas.
Durham, NC
Indianapolis, IN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Indianapolis, IN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Durham, NC
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Durham, NC
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Durham | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Tornadoes, Winters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Durham and Indianapolis experience a range of seasonal temperatures and similar rainfall, some key differences are noteworthy. Durham typically enjoys more days of sunshine and milder winters, with significantly less snowfall compared to Indianapolis. This may require a wardrobe adjustment for newcomers moving from Durham. Furthermore, the slight difference in average annual humidity and UV index between the cities indicates a similar feel to the air, albeit with a slight variation in sun exposure. Lastly, while both cities face their unique natural disaster risks, understanding and preparing for them is crucial for a smooth transition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Durham to Indianapolis
When planning a move from Durham, NC to Indianapolis, IN, it's crucial to grasp how your financial landscape may shift. Understanding the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income between Durham and Indianapolis helps in planning your move effectively and aligning your budget accordingly.
| Comparison | Durham | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $71,343 | $58,479 |
| Cost of Living Index | 96.6 | 87.2 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25 | 3.23 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.80 | 0.87 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.50 | 7.00 |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Health Services, Biotech | Manufacturing, Health Services, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Mixed |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
When analyzing the table, you'll notice that while the average household income in Durham is higher than in Indianapolis, the cost of living in Durham is also more substantial. This aspect illustrates how earnings and living costs must be considered together for a complete financial picture. Interestingly, state income tax is lower in Indianapolis, offering a bit of relief on that front. Furthermore, the contrast in the top industries between the two cities suggests potential career impact, depending on your field of employment. Lastly, the differences in poverty and homelessness levels may also influence your decision, reflecting on the social and economic environments of your potential new home.
Durham vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Durham, NC to Indianapolis, IN, understanding the communities you're transitioning between can be invaluable. This comparison of the politics between Durham & Indianapolis provides a quick glance at the political and religious makeup of their residents, helping you appreciate the social landscape you're moving into.
| Durham | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Moderately Democratic |
| Local Politics | Civic engagement high | Civic engagement moderate |
| Religion | Diverse, with significant Christian and non-Christian communities | Predominantly Christian |
You might find Durham's political atmosphere more inclined towards Democratic values with a high level of civic engagement, reflecting a community deeply involved in local governance and activism. This contrasts with Indianapolis, which, while also leaning Democratic, showcases a more moderate level of civic engagement. Religion plays a significant role in both cities, though Durham offers a more diverse religious landscape compared to the predominantly Christian faith community in Indianapolis. Understanding these nuances can help you navigate your new community more effectively.
Durham vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide aims to help you better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between Durham, NC, and Indianapolis, IN. Whether planning your daily commute or exploring the city, knowing what to expect can make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Durham | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Possible, but limited |
One key factor to consider when comparing Durham and Indianapolis is the average commute time and the traffic congestion. While both cities have relatively similar commute times, with Durham averaging around 22 minutes and Indianapolis at 24 minutes, Indianapolis scores slightly higher in traffic congestion. This implies you might face more frequent delays in Indianapolis. Despite this, both cities are working on improving their public transit systems. However, owning a car is still a more convenient option for total freedom of movement, especially in Durham where the availability and coverage of public transit are less developed than in Indianapolis. Navigating these cities without a personal vehicle is feasible, but your accessibility to certain areas might be limited.
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