Top local movers for Chicago to Indianapolis moves
Searching for a dependable local mover in Chicago that also provides long-distance services to Indianapolis can feel overwhelming. That’s where we come in — we’ve analyzed 68 local movers in Chicago who specialize in long-distance relocations, factoring in cost, services, and customer feedback.
These are the best local moving companies for getting from Chicago to Indianapolis.
- New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
- STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
- The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
- H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
- Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars
Company Info
State license #: 158051
Years in Business: 16
DOT #: 3078026
Alternate Names: Windy City Moving, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 139020
Pricing: $150/hr
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 1308599
Alternate Names: STI Moving & Storage, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 136144
Years in Business: 20
DOT #: 3383907
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by money order
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 184599
Years in Business: 10
DOT #: 2428328
Alternate Names: H2H Movers, Inc
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Hot Tubs
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Crane vans
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Safes
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
- Deposit Required
Company Info
State license #: 158678
Years in Business: 16
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Hot Tubs
- Crating
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
How much does it cost to move from Chicago to Indianapolis?
Movers in Illinois generally charge an average of $113 per hour. Check out these typical costs for a full-service moving company, moving container, or truck rental:
| Move size | Moving company | Moving container | Rental truck |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $660 – $2,443 | $513 – $1,224 | $208 – $331 |
| 2 – 3 bedrooms | $1,287 – $3,794 | $963 – $1,842 | $213 – $395 |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,635 – $4,568 | $1,221 – $2,245 | $255 – $491 |
Cost to hire movers from Chicago to Indianapolis
Moving a studio or one-bedroom home from Chicago to Indianapolis typically costs between $660 and $2,443. For a two- or three-bedroom home, expect prices to fall between $1,287 and $3,794 when moving from Chicago to Indianapolis. If you’re tackling a large move (think four or five bedrooms) from Chicago to Indianapolis, you’re looking at costs ranging from $1,635 up to $4,568.
Cost of moving containers from Chicago to Indianapolis
If you’re relocating from Chicago to Indianapolis, you’ll typically spend between $513 and $1,224 for a small move. Have a two or three-bedroom home? Plan for costs to range from $963 up to $1,842. If you’re moving a larger home — four bedrooms or more — expect to pay anywhere between $1,221 and $2,245. For a full breakdown, check out our complete PODS cost guide.
Explore our top budget-friendly moving container companies for your move from Illinois.
Cost of moving truck rentals from Chicago to Indianapolis
Renting a moving truck is typically the most budget-friendly choice for a Chicago to Indianapolis move, but remember, you’ll be responsible for all the heavy lifting, packing, and driving on your own.
If you’re moving from a studio or one-bedroom place with a rental truck, expect to pay between $208 and $331. For a two- or three-bedroom move, costs usually range from $213 to $395. If you’re tackling a four-bedroom or bigger move, your rental truck will likely run between $255 and $491.
Estimated fuel costs are already factored into these quotes.
Major factors affecting moving costs from Chicago to Indianapolis
The cost of Chicago movers will depend on:
- Move size: The cost of your move depends on how much you’re bringing. A one-bedroom from Chicago to Indianapolis might be as low as $922, while a four-bedroom could reach $3,990.
- When you move: Moving in summer often costs more, since it’s the busiest season for movers in Chicago.
- DIY moves vs. full-service help: Truck rentals cost less — around $208 to $443 — but you’ll handle all the labor vs. letting professionals do it.
What to know before moving from Chicago to Indianapolis
Many movers find Indianapolis easier on the wallet than Chicago – roughly 23% less for singles and 28% less for families.
Monthly basics average $2,804 for one person in Indianapolis versus $3,648 in Chicago. For a family of four, it’s $6,667 compared with $9,266.
See the cost breakdown below to pinpoint where the savings add up:
| Chicago | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Average 1 BR rent | $2,368 | $1,688 |
| Average 3 BR rent | $4,581 | $2,708 |
| Average home value | $295,743 | $220,467 |
| Average income (per capita) | $71,566 | $59,110 |
| Cost of living (single) | $3,648 | $2,804 |
| Cost of living (family of four) | $9,266 | $6,667 |
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | 5.6% |
| Sales tax | 10.25% | 7.0% |
| State income tax | 4.95% | 3.15% |
- Good news! When moving to Indianapolis from Chicago, you’ll benefit from rent being an estimated 32% less, allowing for a more relaxed budget.
- With home prices being nearly 25% cheaper in Indianapolis, your mortgage budget will remain the same without any significant changes.
- Be sure to look over your budget before making the move. The average income is about 17% lower in Indianapolis than in Chicago.
- Prepare to enjoy reduced routine costs such as groceries, fuel, and utilities in Indianapolis. The cost of living for a single person is 23% less compared to Chicago.
- Relocating to Indianapolis could provide savings on routine expenses for your family, including transportation, utilities, and groceries. The cost of living for a family is 28% lower than in Chicago.
- With an unemployment rate approximately 38% lower than Chicago, Indianapolis boasts a favorable employment scene and thriving economic conditions, ideal for new arrivals.
- Sales taxes are 32% lower in Indianapolis than Chicago, a factor that could decrease expenditure on taxable items if your consumption is higher.
- Income taxes are 36% lower in Indiana than in Illinois. Lower income tax rates mean less money is withheld from your paycheck, giving you more flexibility to save, invest, or cover everyday expenses.
Take a detailed look at how everyday expenses stack up between Chicago and Indianapolis, from monthly bills to routine purchases:
| Living Expense | Chicago | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Basic utilities | $191.26 | $231.67 |
| Cell phone plan | $61.10 | $62.58 |
| Dozen eggs | $4.52 | $3.33 |
| Loaf of bread | $4.15 | $3.00 |
| Fast-food/casual eatery (one meal) | $25.00 | $25.00 |
| Dinner for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | $100.00 | $60.00 |
| Gym membership | $78.31 | $35.50 |
- Basic utilities cost less in Chicago than in Indianapolis, helping trim your monthly bills.
- Cell phone plans are cheaper in Chicago than in Indianapolis.
- Eggs cost more in Chicago than in Indianapolis.
- Bread is more expensive in Chicago than in Indianapolis.
- The cost of a quick meal is about the same in both cities.
- A mid-range dinner for two is pricier in Chicago than in Indianapolis.
- Gym memberships cost more in Chicago than in Indianapolis.
How life is different in Chicago vs. Indianapolis
| Chicago | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,746,388 | 887,642 |
| Transportation score | 9 | 5 |
| Walkability score | 77 | 31 |
| Bike friendliness score | 72 | 43 |
| Crime index | 35.19 | 60.71 |
| Safety index | 33.87 | 39.29 |
| Air quality | Good | Good |
- Indianapolis’s population is about 68% less than Chicago.
- Indianapolis’s public transportation score of 5 out of 10 is lower than Chicago’s score of 9.
- Indianapolis is less walkable than Chicago with a score of 31 out of 100 vs Chicago’s 77 out of 100.
- Indianapolis has a bike-friendliness score of 43 out of 100, which means it isn’t as accessible or safe for cyclists as Chicago, which has a score of 72.
- Indianapolis’s crime rate is higher than Chicago with a score of 60.71 compared to Chicago’s 35.19. This means that Indianapolis neighborhoods are safer than 60.71% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and Chicago neighborhoods are safer than 35.19%.
- Indianapolis is considered to be safer than Chicago with a safety index of 39.29 vs Chicago’s 33.87.
- Air quality in Indianapolis is Good, and in Chicago it’s Good.
Other things to consider for your Chicago to Indianapolis 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: The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) regulate movers operating within Indiana and issue moving companies Indiana Households Goods Carriers Numbers. Check to make sure prospective movers have one and that it’s up to date. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can check the status of a Indiana moving license through the state’s public utilities commission.
- Moving Permits: You won’t need a moving permit in Indiana, 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 Indianapolis 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 Released Value Protection – a budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers, though coverage is limited to 60 cents per pound. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, reimbursement is just $15. To ensure coverage for your items’ full value, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
- Moving checklist: Our moving checklist will help you have the peace of mind that you’ve got everything covered.
Where to live in Indianapolis
Ready to relocate to Amateur Sports Capital of the World? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Indianapolis.
Best neighborhoods for singles
- Broad Ripple Village
- Fountain Square
- Mile Square
- Meridian-Kessler
- Old Northside
Best neighborhoods for families
- Avon
- Brownsburg
- Carmel
- Fishers
- Westfield
Things to do in Indianapolis
Now that you’ve made the move to Indiana, it’s the perfect time to explore Indianapolis. From local hotspots to hidden gems, there’s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:
- Arts and culture: Cultural attractions in Indianapolis include museums and art centers like the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Indianapolis Museum of Art, and The Eiteljorg Museum.
- Outdoor recreation: Outdoor lovers will appreciate Eagle Creek Park, White River State Park, Broad Ripple Park, and Krannert Park, 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 Indianapolis Colts (NFL)Indianapolis Pacers (NBA)Indianapolis Fever (WNBA) game.
FAQ
When is the best time to move from Chicago to Indianapolis?
Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from Chicago to Indianapolis. You’ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in Chicago.
When is the cheapest time to move from Chicago to Indianapolis?
With many people choosing to move from Chicago to Indianapolis 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 Chicago to Indianapolis take?
Covering 183 miles, the move from Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, typically takes one to two days. Some Chicago movers may offer faster options, and if your timing is flexible, storage services in Indianapolis can help bridge the gap.
Do movers in Chicago offer any discounts?
Many do — and the types of discounts available can help you cut costs. 2 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 Chicago can handle specialty items for my move to Indianapolis?
Specialty moving services aren’t offered by every company. In Chicago, 54 movers can handle pianos. 40 offer antique moving services. Compared to the rest of IL, there are 70 piano movers and 48 antique movers, while nationwide the numbers are 2,303 and 1,466 respectively.
If you need these services, it’s best to book early — availability can be limited, especially during peak moving months.
Helpful moving resources
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