Best Charleston to Indianapolis Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Charleston to Indianapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 727 mile move from South Carolina to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Charleston to Indianapolis moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Smooth Move Charleston), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Charleston 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 Charleston to Indianapolis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Smooth Move Charleston | 9.21 | 9.46 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.81 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Armstrong Relocation | 8.15 | 7.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Charleston to Indianapolis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 727 miles from Charleston, SC to Indianapolis, IN will cost on average $2,399 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Indianapolis move is roughly $5,755. 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 | $1,615 | 300 ft³ | 5.38 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,399 | 450 ft³ | 5.33 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,962 | 750 ft³ | 5.28 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,755 | 1100 ft³ | 5.23 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,291 | 1600 ft³ | 5.18 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,238 | 1800 ft³ | 5.13 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indianapolis to Charleston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Charleston to Indianapolis Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Smooth Move Charleston
4767 Rivers Ave
North Charleston, SC, 29405
About Smooth Move Charleston
With locations in Rock Hill and Charleston, South Carolina, Smooth Move is a locally owned and operated moving company that is...
Services
- Full Service Packing and Unpacking
- Short or Long Distance Moves
- Residential or Commercial Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2357653 / 834668 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Ready Set Movers
454 Deanna Ln
Charleston, SC, 29492
About Ready Set Movers
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Ready Set Movers provides relocation services for both local and long-distance moves. Since...
Services
- Local and interstate moves
- Full-service moving
- Accurate and detailed estimates
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2150739 / 756179 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2022) |
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) |
Armstrong Relocation
7167 Cross County Rd
North Charleston, SC, 29418
About Armstrong Relocation
Established in 1957, Armstrong Relocation has long been a stalwart of the moving industry. Although based in Memphis, Tennessee, the company...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Employee Relocation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3528195 / 1173611 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (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.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Neighborhood Comparison
Getting acquainted with a new city can be daunting, so we're here to help you ease the transition by offering a comparison of local neighborhoods between Charleston, SC & Indianapolis, IN . By aligning familiar communities with their closest equivalents, you'll soon feel right at home.
| Charleston | Indianapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | Fletcher Place | Historic charm, urban vibe |
| South of Broad | Meridian-Kessler | Historic homes, luxury feel |
| West Ashley | Broad Ripple | Eclectic arts, dining scene |
| Cannonborough/Elliottborough | Mass Ave | Bustling arts, theater district |
| Harleston Village | Bates-Hendricks | Diverse architecture, community-driven |
| Sullivan's Island | Geist Reservoir | Waterfront living, leisure |
| Mount Pleasant | Zionsville | Community feel, family-friendly |
| James Island | Greenwood | Nature trails, laid-back vibe |
| Wagener Terrace | Garfield Park | Bohemian atmosphere, artistic spirit |
| The Peninsula | Downtown Indianapolis | Vibrant nightlife, urban living |
In Charleston, if you're a fan of the bohemian and artistic vibe in Wagener Terrace, you might find yourself drawn to Garfield Park in Indianapolis, known for its creative community and eclectic gatherings at the Pagoda and the Indianapolis Art Center. For those who enjoy the historic charm of South of Broad with its grand homes and waterfront views, Meridian-Kessler offers a similar luxury feel with its own elegant residences and lush parks such as Holliday Park. Alternatively, if Sullivan's Island's serene beach life appeals to you, the Geist Reservoir area provides an ideal waterfront lifestyle, complete with sailing and leisurely lakeside dining. Each neighborhood in Indianapolis offers its unique allure, mirroring the diverse experiences you cherished in Charleston.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Indianapolis
When considering a move from Charleston, SC to Indianapolis, IN, it's important to weigh both the positives and negatives of such a relocation. The following comparisons offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad, showcasing the pros and cons of Charleston, SC versus the advantages and drawbacks of Indianapolis, IN .
Charleston, SC- High humidity
- Hurricane risk
- Tourist crowds
- High cost of living
Indianapolis, IN- Comfortable summers
- No hurricanes
- Less crowded
- Affordable housing
Indianapolis, IN- No beaches
- Fewer historical sites
- Modern buildings
- Cold winters
Charleston, SC- Ocean access
- Rich history
- Charming architecture
- Warm winters
In Indianapolis, you’ll appreciate the absence of coastal weather headaches, such as hurricanes, which are common in Charleston. Neighborhoods like Mass Ave offer a rich blend of culture without the overwhelming crowds typical of Charleston's historic downtown. Perhaps one of the biggest draws of Indy is its affordability; unlike Charleston, where housing costs run high, areas like Broad Ripple Village provide a more budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing quality of life. However, while Indy might lack the allure of nearby beaches, parks such as Garfield Park compensate with lush green spaces ideal for relaxation, elevating your recreational options beyond the surf and sand of Charleston.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Food Guide
Food is an integral part of local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we'll dive into a comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston & Indianapolis , providing you with insights into the food scene where you are moving to. Discover the iconic dishes, popular eateries, and culinary experiences each city has to offer.
| Charleston | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | She-Crab Soup | Sugar Cream Pie |
| Most popular meat dish | Shrimp and Grits | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Green Tomatoes | Walking Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Grilled Cauliflower Steak | Vegan Nachos |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Indianapolis, you'll find its culinary scene both diverse and surprising. Enjoy a famous Pork Tenderloin Sandwich in the vibrant Broad Ripple neighborhood, where local eateries put their twist on this Hoosier classic. The city's thriving foodie culture shines in areas like Fountain Square, featuring avant-garde spots such as Bluebeard and Milktooth. Additionally, you will appreciate Indy's increasing emphasis on vegan-friendly options, with destinations like Garden Table serving delightful fare. If you enjoy exploring via food trucks, you're in luck—the city's booming food truck scene offers everything from creative takes on nachos to unique dessert experiences that complement the local flavor.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison
Food plays an essential role in making a new place feel like home. By comparing Charleston's culinary scene to Indianapolis's options , you can find your new favorite eateries, mirroring your current hometown's flavors.
| Charleston | Indianapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Bluebeard | Known for its modern twist on Midwestern cuisine |
| FIG | The Garden Table | Emphasizes farm-to-table dining experiences |
| 167 Raw | Rook | Offers fresh, innovative seafood dishes |
| Hominy Grill | Café Patachou | Celebrated for its classic yet creative brunch offerings |
| The Ordinary | St. Elmo Steak House | An iconic spot for traditional yet upscale dining |
| Xiao Bao Biscuit | Thai Lotus | Delights in authentic, bold Asian flavors |
| Poe's Tavern | Burgerhaus | Known for gourmet burgers in a casual setting |
| Leon’s Oyster Shop | Oceanaire Seafood Room | Prizes itself on a classy seafood experience |
| Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit | Love Handle | Recognized for its indulgent breakfast offerings |
| Edmund’s Oast | Triton Brewing Company | Offers a similar experience for craft beer enthusiasts |
In transitioning from Charleston to Indianapolis, you’ll discover that both cities share a love for elevated dining experiences. At Bluebeard, the emphasis on local ingredients parallels the philosophy at Charleston's acclaimed Husk, bringing forth modern Midwestern culinary artistry. When seeking out the fresh, handcrafted flavors reminiscent of Xiao Bao Biscuit’s celebrated Asian-inspired menu, make your way to Thai Lotus, where the bold and authentic dishes are sure to satisfy. Meanwhile, The Ordinary sets a high bar for seafood lovers, a role admirably filled by the elegant Oceanaire Seafood Room in Indianapolis. Whether your preference leans towards casual dining or refined experiences, you'll find options that expertly match Charleston's unique offerings.
Ready to start your move?
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how housing in Charleston compares to Indianapolis before making the journey.
| Comparison | Charleston | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Art Deco |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Waterfront views | Rental income potential |
When considering a move from Charleston to Indianapolis, you're likely to find a significant difference in housing prices, with Indianapolis offering more affordable options. Charleston's typical colonial architecture offers a charm that contrasts with Indianapolis's Art Deco style. While Charleston boasts stunning waterfront views, residents of Indianapolis often highlight the potential for rental income in the local real estate market. Moreover, if you're passionate about city life, you may find Indianapolis has a stronger urban lifestyle vibe. Shopping for a home here might reveal cozy little eateries or shops worth visiting, like the Indianapolis City Market, nearby your potential new neighborhood.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston to Indianapolis , it's crucial to understand how the weather will compare to what you're used to. These cities experience distinct climatic differences that can impact your daily life and overall comfort. This comparison provides key insights into these variations, helping you prepare for your new environment.
Charleston, SC
Indianapolis, IN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Indianapolis, IN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, SC
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, SC
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Charleston | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Charleston to Indianapolis, you'll find that winter temperatures present one of the starkest contrasts. Indianapolis experiences noticeably colder winters, requiring heavier clothing and preparation for snow, which is virtually nonexistent in Charleston. Sunshine is slightly less frequent in Indianapolis, but the city also experiences lower UV exposure. While Charleston deals mainly with hurricanes, you'll need to be aware of the potential for tornadoes in Indianapolis, as they occur more frequently in the Midwest. Understanding these changes can help you better acclimate to your new home.";
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Indianapolis
If you're moving from Charleston to Indianapolis , it's essential to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will help you gauge the financial changes you might encounter, ensuring a smoother transition as you navigate budgeting, taxes, and economic opportunities in your new city.
| Comparison | Charleston | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,139 | $58,479 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.3 | 87.2 |
| State Income Tax | 7% | 3.23% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 0.84% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9% | 7% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
When comparing the financial landscapes of Charleston and Indianapolis, you'll discover several key differences. The average household income in Charleston is significantly higher than in Indianapolis, which may reflect the city's affluence and higher cost of living index. Additionally, South Carolina's state income tax is notably higher compared to Indiana's, potentially affecting your net income. On the tax front, while Charleston enjoys a lower average property tax rate, its sales tax rate is higher than what you'll experience in Indianapolis. These variations could influence how you allocate your budget across living expenses, savings, and discretionary spending.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be an enlightening experience, especially when it involves a change in community values and lifestyles. This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents of both regions, focusing on the comparison of the politics between Charleston & Indianapolis .
| Charleston | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly Liberal | More Balanced |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies influenced by local leaders | Influence of both Democrat and Republican leaders |
| Religion | Diverse with a strong Christian presence | Predominantly Christian with growing diversity |
When you shift from Charleston to Indianapolis, you notice a fascinating dynamic in local politics. Charleston, for instance, tends to embrace more progressive policies which are often shaped by its local leaders and community initiatives. Meanwhile, Indianapolis offers a political scene that is more balanced, showcasing the influence of both Democratic and Republican leaders. In terms of religion, while both cities have a prominent Christian presence, Indianapolis is beginning to mirror Charleston's earlier stages of religious diversification. This change presents an exciting opportunity to engage with a variety of cultural and faith-based communities, from places like the thriving Charleston Visitor Bureau and the vibrant Indianapolis tourism scene.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, SC to Indianapolis, IN, understanding the nuances of the daily commute and traffic can ease your transition. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Charleston & Indianapolis will equip you with valuable insights to navigate your new surroundings effectively.
| Comparison | Charleston | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
When comparing the traffic environments of Charleston and Indianapolis, you'll notice that the commute time in both cities is similar, though slightly shorter in Indianapolis. However, traffic congestion rates show a minor advantage for Indianapolis, providing a less congested driving experience. Public transit availability is marginally better in Indianapolis, where you might find more frequent and accessible options than in Charleston. Unlike in Charleston, getting by without a car in Indianapolis is feasible, thanks to its more developed public transit system and walkable neighborhoods, such as around Downtown Indianapolis.
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