Indianapolis, IN to Dayton, OH Movers (NEW 2026 Costs)
Quick answer: Moving from Indianapolis to Dayton typically costs $1,200–$3,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home (about 117 miles). Use our moving cost calculator below to get an instant estimate.
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Cost to move from Indianapolis to Dayton
Moving from Indianapolis, IN to Dayton, OH typically costs $1,200–$3,500 with full-service movers for a 2–3 bedroom home.
The price ranges below are estimates for a 117-mile move from Indianapolis to Dayton, based on moveBuddha pricing data as of Mar 16, 2026. Pricing is updated monthly to reflect seasonality and market changes.
Studio / 1 bedroom
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2-3 bedrooms
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4+ bedrooms
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Recent moving quotes for similar moves
- Budget Truck Rental recently quoted $163 for a 1 bedroom (large) using a rental truck.
- North American Van Lines recently quoted $1,193 for a studio apartment using professional movers.
- Mayflower Transit recently quoted $3,488 for a 5+ bedroom using professional movers.
1 Bedroom (large)
Feb 18, 2026
Studio apartment
Feb 11, 2026
5+ Bedrooms
Jan 31, 2026
2 Bedrooms
Jan 26, 2026
3 Bedrooms
Jan 18, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Jan 16, 2026
4 Bedrooms
Jan 15, 2026
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 18, 2025
4 Bedrooms
Dec 13, 2025
1 Bedroom (large)
Dec 01, 2025
Major factors affecting moving costs from Indianapolis to Dayton
Your total cost will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Indianapolis to Dayton might be as low as $600, while a four-bedroom could reach $4,300.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Indianapolis.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $100 to $300 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Dayton, OH to Indianapolis, IN guide.
Best Indianapolis to Dayton movers by type
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Labor Only
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Best professional movers from Indianapolis to Dayton
When it comes to handling your interstate move from Indianapolis to Dayton, entrusting professionals with the details is often the best decision. Full-service movers are equipped to manage everything, allowing you to concentrate on settling into your new place.
Want a deeper breakdown of the top long-distance movers? See our best interstate movers guide.
- Safeway Moving: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- American Van Lines: 4.9 out of 5 stars
- Allied Van Lines: 4.2 out of 5 stars
- Mayzlin Relocation: 4.8 out of 5 stars
- North American Van Lines: 4.8 out of 5 stars
Best overall value
How we chose the best IN→OH movers
moveBuddha's expert team analyzed moving rates from 60 Indiana movers and listed the top movers based on customer satisfaction, reviews, and cost.
- Customer satisfaction (40%): The organization reliably provides services punctually, maintains clear communication, and stays within the anticipated budget.
- Dispute resolution (20%): Since mistakes are inevitable in moving, we value movers that accept responsibility and work hard to correct issues when they occur.
- Industry reputation (15%): The organization is recognized in the industry and takes part in professional gatherings and associations.
- Online reputation (15%): The company’s reputation online is supported by a well-maintained website and prompt, professional engagement with customer questions.
- Service options (10%): We look for companies with a deep breadth of services including full packing, storage, specialty item handling, and expedited delivery.
Here is our full moving company rating methodology.
What to know before moving from Indianapolis to Dayton
Many movers find Dayton easier on the wallet than Indianapolis - roughly 43% less for singles and 43% less for families.
Monthly basics average $1,593 for one person in Dayton versus $2,804 in Indianapolis. For a family of four, it's $3,788 compared with $6,667.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Indianapolis | Dayton | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $1,688 | $1,192 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $2,708 | $1,683 |
| Average home value | $220,467 | $135,815 |
| Average income (per capita) | $59,110 | $62,673 |
| Cost of living (single) | $2,804 | $1,593 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $6,667 | $3,788 |
| Unemployment rate | 5.6% | 6.8% |
| Sales tax | 7.0% | 7.5% |
| State income tax | 3.15% | 3.5% |
- Good news! When moving to Dayton from Indianapolis, you'll benefit from rent being an estimated 34% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 38% cheaper in Dayton, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Exciting news here, the average income is about 6% higher in Dayton than in Indianapolis, so you should have more to save or invest each month.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Dayton. The cost of living for a single person is 43% less compared to Indianapolis.
- Relocating to Dayton could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 43% lower than in Indianapolis.
- The unemployment rate in Dayton exceeds that of Indianapolis by about 21%, resulting in a larger pool of potential workers and thus more hiring competition.
- Sales taxes in Dayton exceed those in Indianapolis by 7%, which can mean paying extra for usual purchases like clothes and electronics.
- Income taxes are 11% higher in Ohio than in Indiana. This means a larger portion of your earnings will go to state taxes, potentially reducing your take-home pay.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Indianapolis and Dayton, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Indianapolis | Dayton |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $231.67 | $200.37 |
| Cell phone plan | $62.58 | $44.17 |
| Dozen eggs | $3.33 | $3.02 |
| Loaf of bread | $3.00 | $2.61 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $15.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $60.00 | $57.50 |
| Gym membership | $35.50 | $33.34 |
- Basic utilities tend to be more expensive in Indianapolis than in Dayton.
- Cell phone plans typically cost more in Indianapolis than in Dayton.
- Eggs cost more in Indianapolis than in Dayton.
- Bread is more expensive in Indianapolis than in Dayton.
- A quick meal tends to cost more in Indianapolis than in Dayton.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Indianapolis than in Dayton.
- Gym memberships cost more in Indianapolis than in Dayton.
How life is different in Indianapolis vs. Dayton
| Indianapolis | Dayton | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 887,642 | 137,644 |
| Transportation score | 5 | 6 |
| Walkability score | 31 | 45 |
| Bike friendliness score | 43 | 47 |
| Crime index | 60.71 | 4.0 |
| Safety index | 39.29 | 40.68 |
| Air quality | Good | Moderate |
- Dayton's population is about 84% less than Indianapolis.
- Dayton's public transportation score of 6 out of 10 is higher than Indianapolis's score of 5.
- Dayton is more walkable than Indianapolis with a score of 45 out of 100 vs Indianapolis's 31 out of 100.
- With a score of 47 out of 100, Dayton is more bike-friendly than Indianapolis, which has a score of 43 out of 100. The higher a city's score, the more suited it is to safely accommodating cyclists.
- Dayton's crime rate is lower than Indianapolis with a score of 4.0 compared to Indianapolis's 60.71. This means that Dayton neighborhoods are safer than 4.0% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Indianapolis neighborhoods are safer than 60.71%.
- Dayton and Indianapolis have a similar safety level, with scores of 40.68 and 39.29.
- Air quality in Dayton is Moderate, and in Indianapolis it's Good.
Other things to consider for your Indianapolis to Dayton move
- HOA rules: To keep things running smoothly, make sure you're familiar with any HOA or community moving policies before the big day.
- Elevator reservation: If there is an elevator in your building, it's a good idea to secure a reservation before your moving day.
- Truck parking permits: Research parking requirements in your destination city to ensure your truck won’t run into restrictions.
- State licensing: Although a local license is not required in Ohio, make sure the moving company you’ll be hiring is registered with U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). To verify if you’re dealing with a legal and licensed mover, you may ask them their USDOT registration number. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Ohio moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won't need a moving permit in Ohio, though it's smart to double-check any local parking restrictions ahead of your move.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move to ensure your mail gets forwarded to Dayton without delay. You can select your official move date when completing the form. Start the process here.
- Moving company insurance: State laws differ on mover insurance. Opt for cost-free Released Value Protection from movers, offering minimal coverage with a maximum liability of 60 cents per pound per article. For comprehensive coverage, explore alternatives with your chosen moving company or consider a third-party insurance provider.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you've got everything covered.
Where to live in Dayton
Ready to relocate to Gem City? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Dayton.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Oakwood
- Centerville
- Springboro
- Five Points
- Bellbrook
Best neighborhoods for families
- Downtown
- Webster Station
- South Park
- Oregon District
- Shroyer Park
- Five Oaks
- Gratton Hill
Things to do in Dayton
Now that you've made the move to Ohio, it's the perfect time to explore Dayton. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there's something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Dayton include museums and art centers like the National Museum of the US Air Force, America's Packard Museum - The Citizens Motorcar Co., Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, and Dayton International Peace Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, Carriage Hill MetroPark, RiverScape MetroPark, and Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark, along with many other spots perfect for walking, cycling, and fresh air adventures.
- Sports: Catch a live game and cheer on the home team at an Dayton Dragons (Baseball-Midwest League)Wright State Raiders (Horizon League) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Indianapolis to Dayton?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Indianapolis to Dayton. You'll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Indianapolis.
When is the cheapest time to move from Indianapolis to Dayton?
With many people choosing to move from Indianapolis to Dayton in spring or fall, winter moves often come with better rates. Take a look at our moving discounts guide to find out how to save.
How long does a move from Indianapolis to Dayton take?
Covering 117 miles, the move from Indianapolis, IN to Dayton, OH typically takes one to two days. Some Indianapolis movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Dayton can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Indianapolis offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 1 movers provide military discounts. 3 movers extend senior citizen discounts.
Because offers change, confirm details with your mover to make sure you’re getting the most out of available deals.
How many movers in Indianapolis can handle specialty items for my move to Dayton?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Indianapolis, 18 movers can handle pianos. 10 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IN, there are 43 piano movers and 21 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,296 and 1,463 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
