Best Charleston to Indianapolis Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Charleston to Indianapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 313 mile move from West Virginia to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 20 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 Ready Set Movers), 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 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 | Ready Set Movers | 9.16 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
2 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Soft Touch Moving | 8.81 | 8.86 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
4 | Central Van Lines | 8.16 | 8.11 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
5 | Two Men and a Truck | 7.70 | 7.26 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Charleston to Indianapolis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 313 miles from Charleston, WV to Indianapolis, IN will cost on average $2,047 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Charleston to Indianapolis move is roughly $4,895. 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 | $1,380 | 300 ft³ | 4.60 |
1 Bedroom | $2,047 | 450 ft³ | 4.55 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,375 | 750 ft³ | 4.50 |
3 Bedrooms | $4,895 | 1100 ft³ | 4.45 |
4 Bedrooms | $7,040 | 1600 ft³ | 4.40 |
5+ Bedrooms | $7,830 | 1800 ft³ | 4.35 |


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)

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) |

Central Van Lines
37 Jacobson Dr
Poca, WV, 25159
About Central Van Lines
Whether you’re moving across the street or across the globe, Central Van Lines knows how to get your belongings safely where...
Services
- Local and long-distance moving services
- Residential moving services
- Commercial moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1243887 / 11266 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 44 |
Registered Drivers | 35 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 487,000 (2019) |

Two Men and a Truck
2410 Air Park Rd
North Charleston, SC, 29406
About Two Men and a Truck
Since 1997, Two Men and a Truck has been the go-to moving company for families and businesses in North Charleston, SC....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Junk Removal
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3402685 / 1095537 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (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
Relocating to a new city can be daunting, but by comparing familiar neighborhoods, you can find areas that feel like home. This guide provides a comparison between neighborhoods in Charleston, WV & Indianapolis, IN to help you navigate the similarities and differences.
Charleston | Indianapolis | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
East End | Broad Ripple | Artsy vibe and historic charm |
South Hills | Meridian-Kessler | Family-friendly suburban feel |
Kanawha City | Southport | Riverside living with shopping |
Fort Hill | Cottage Home | Eclectic mix of housing styles |
West Side | Fountain Square | Cultural diversity and nightlife |
South Charleston | Greenwood | Access to parks and green spaces |
Downtown Charleston | Mile Square | Urban lifestyle, rich history |
Charleston Heights | Butler-Tarkington | Quiet, tree-lined streets |
Edgewood | Irvington | Historic homes and vibrant community |
North Charleston | Broad Ripple Village | Lively bar and restaurant scene |
If you enjoy the artsy vibe and historic charm of East End, Broad Ripple's eclectic mix of local art galleries like The Gallery Pastry Shop and live music venues will captivate you. For those fond of the family-friendly suburban feel in South Hills, Meridian-Kessler offers beautiful architecture and family-centric spots like the iconic Monon Trail. Residents of Kanawha City, who appreciate riverside living and vibrant shopping centers, will feel right at home in Southport, which boasts the Southport Antique Mall and numerous water-based recreational activities. Downtown Charleston's urban lifestyle aligns with Indianapolis's Mile Square, where you can explore historical sites like the Indiana State Museum amidst a dynamic urban atmosphere.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Charleston to Indianapolis
Relocating from Charleston, WV to Indianapolis, IN involves weighing a mix of factors. This comparison provides an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Charleston to Indianapolis , helping you make an informed decision about this significant life change.
- Limited job market
- Higher poverty rate
- Fewer cultural events
- Remote location
- Old infrastructure
- Diverse job opportunities
- Lower poverty rate
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Central location
- Modern amenities
- Larger city bustle
- Higher traffic congestion
- Higher cost of living
- Higher crime rates
- Quaint small-town feel
- Lower traffic congestion
- Cost of living
- Less crime
Charleston, WV offers a charming small-town atmosphere with lower traffic congestion and a more manageable cost of living. However, Indianapolis shines with its thriving job market and vibrant cultural scene. You’ll find a plethora of neighborhood parks like Garfield Park, and diverse dining experiences in bustling areas such as Mass Ave. While the cost of living may be higher, the variety of opportunities and amenities—from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to the Monument Circle—offers a trade-off that many find worthwhile.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture, shaping your experience and connection to a new place. In this comparison of the local cuisine between Charleston, WV and Indianapolis, IN , you’ll explore what each city offers, helping you better understand your culinary journey in your new home.
Charleston | Indianapolis | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Peanut butter & pepperoni rolls | Pork tenderloin sandwich |
Most popular meat dish | Fried chicken livers | Beef Manhattan |
Most popular street food item | Hot dogs | Food truck tacos |
Most popular vegan food | Vegan chili | Jackfruit BBQ sandwich |
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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Indianapolis offers a vibrant food scene, especially in neighborhoods like Broad Ripple and Mass Ave., where you can indulge in their renowned pork tenderloin sandwiches or explore numerous food trucks offering diverse options. Local favorites such as Milktooth have put the city on the culinary map, showcasing its innovation and dedication to quality. Meanwhile, the city's attention to vegan-friendly options stands out at restaurants like Three Carrots, making it easier for plant-based eaters to find delicious meals. Overall, Indianapolis presents a dynamic blend of traditional and modern culinary experiences that cater to a wide range of tastes.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison
Food is an essential part of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison highlights top dining spots in Charleston, WV and Indianapolis, IN , guiding you to discover your next favorite eateries in your new city using familiar favorites from your current hometown.
Charleston | Indianapolis | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Pies & Pints | Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza | Offers a diverse menu with craft beer pairings |
Bluegrass Kitchen | Milktooth | Both bring farm-to-table freshness and creativity to their menus |
Fazio's Italian Restaurant | Iaria's Italian Restaurant | Family-owned with a rich history and classic Italian fare |
Tidewater Grill | Oceanaire Seafood Room | Premier seafood options with a focus on fresh catches |
Bridge Road Bistro | Bluebeard | Similar upscale dining experiences with a focus on New American cuisine |
Black Sheep Burrito & Brews | Bakersfield | Known for inventive tacos and impressive craft beer selections |
Mi Cocina de Amor | Livery | Both offer bold, authentic Latin flavors in a vibrant setting |
Laury's Restaurant | St. Elmo Steak House | Signature steak dishes in an elegant, historic setting |
Dem 2 Brothers and a Grill | Squealers Barbeque Grill | Renowned for hearty, flavorful BBQ selections |
Sushi Garden | Sushi Boss | Fresh sushi creations with a customizable menu |
In Charleston, the charm of places like Pies & Pints draws you with its lively pizza and beer pairing, while a similar allure awaits at Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza in Indianapolis. For those who adore culinary creativity blended with local ingredients, Bluegrass Kitchen provides a memorable dining escapade in Charleston, echoed by Milktooth in Indy with its inventive brunch offerings. Meanwhile, when you seek the richness of Italy in every bite, the warmth of Fazio’s Italian Restaurant is mirrored by Iaria’s Italian Restaurant. Each spot offers a comforting taste that is sure to make your transition between cities feel a little more like home.

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 essential to understand how housing in Charleston, WV compares to Indianapolis, IN . This comparison will help guide your decision by outlining key elements like cost, architecture, and lifestyle.
Comparison | Charleston | Indianapolis |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Patios, fireplaces | Open floor plans, garages |
When considering a move, Charleston offers more affordable housing with a median home price significantly lower than Indianapolis. However, if you value an urban lifestyle with higher walkability and bikeability, Indianapolis stands out. Indianapolis's emphasis on open floor plans and garages reflects a modern housing trend, while Charleston's colonial style resonates with historical charm. If you enjoy a vibrant cultural experience, tackling the larger city life in Indianapolis might suit you better, whereas Charleston offers a cozier, more intimate setting.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Charleston, WV to Indianapolis, IN , it's important to understand the weather differences. Knowing what to expect helps you prepare for new conditions and adjust to your new environment. The following comparison highlights key weather elements you should be aware of when shifting from Charleston's climate to Indianapolis.
Charleston, WV
Indianapolis, IN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Indianapolis, IN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Charleston, WV
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Charleston, WV
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Charleston | Indianapolis |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Flooding | Tornadoes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Charleston to Indianapolis, you'll notice some climatic shifts. While both cities enjoy warm summers with comparable high and low temperatures, Indianapolis experiences slightly harsher winters with colder average lows. On a brighter note, you can anticipate more sunny days in Indianapolis, adding cheer to your new routine. While Charleston often deals with flooding, Indianapolis weather poses a higher risk of tornadoes—a factor worth considering in your personal safety planning. The air quality in Indianapolis tends to be better, which could be beneficial for those with respiratory sensitivities. These elements collectively paint a picture of life in your new city, helping you adapt with greater ease.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Charleston to Indianapolis
If you're moving from Charleston, WV to Indianapolis, IN , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial factors will compare to what you're accustomed to. Knowing this information can help you make informed financial decisions and plan effectively for your new lifestyle.
Comparison | Charleston | Indianapolis |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $49,000 | $58,479 |
Cost of Living Index | 92.7 | 87.2 |
State Income Tax | 6.5% | 3.23% |
Avg. Property Tax | 0.57% | 0.87% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 7% |
Top 3 Industries | Energy, Healthcare, Government | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Finance |
Affluence | Moderate | Higher |
Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
Homelessness | Noticeable | Low |
When moving from Charleston to Indianapolis, you will notice a difference in household income levels, with Indianapolis residents earning more on average. Although Indiana has a lower state income tax rate, the overall cost of living is higher, indicative of its larger urban setting and economic opportunities. Additionally, Indianapolis boasts a robust job market in healthcare, manufacturing, and finance, offering diverse employment prospects not as prevalent in Charleston. While you'll experience slightly higher property and sales taxes, the economic landscape in Indianapolis is often viewed as more dynamic and prosperous.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome to the section where we provide a quick insight into the local culture by offering a comparison of the politics between Charleston & Indianapolis . Understanding the political and religious makeup of these cities helps you familiarize yourself with your new environment at a glance.
Charleston | Indianapolis | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Moderate, with a tendency towards Democratic voting in state elections. | Mostly Democratic, with some Republican representation. |
Local Politics | Focuses on community development and environmental issues, as evident in local projects like the Capitol Market. | Centers around urban growth and minimizing crime, supported by organizations such as the Indy Chamber. |
Religion | Predominantly Christian, with various denominations present. | Majority Christian, along with a growing presence of other religions. |
When you're moving from Charleston to Indianapolis, you may notice the political landscape shifts slightly. While both cities lean Democratic, Indianapolis offers a more urbanized, politically active environment, often focusing on urban growth reflective of its sprawling city nature. Local politics in Charleston feature strong community ties, with initiatives supporting local businesses like the Capitol Market. In contrast, Indianapolis emphasizes urban development, supported by organizations such as the Indy Chamber, which facilitates new business opportunities. Additionally, Charleston's religious scene is largely Christian, similar to Indianapolis, though you might also discover a wider diversity of faith communities as the city continues to grow and embrace multiculturalism.
Charleston vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Embarking on your journey from Charleston, WV to Indianapolis, IN? Understanding the daily commute and traffic differences is essential for your smooth transition. This guide will offer insights into Charleston & Indianapolis traffic and transportation options , enabling you to plan your travel more effectively in your new environment.
Comparison | Charleston | Indianapolis |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 25 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Not easily | Possible |
Your daily commute experience will differ as you move from Charleston to Indianapolis. Charleston generally experiences low traffic congestion, making commutes relatively stress-free, while Indianapolis faces more traffic challenges due to its larger size and bustling economy. However, Indianapolis offers more extensive public transportation, such as IndyGo, which could help ease your travels around the city without a car. While it might be challenging to forego a vehicle in Charleston, Indianapolis provides better alternatives , potentially allowing you to explore the city more economically.



Additional Resources
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Popular Charleston to Indiana Routes
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