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($660) Cost to Move From Chicago, IL to Indianapolis, IN

Easily compare and book your next move with moveBuddha
Estimated cost & time: The cost for moving 183 miles from Chicago to Indianapolis is generally between $213 and $3,794. The trip duration should be approximately one–two days. Final cost is influenced by distance, date, the size of your home, and whether you opt for DIY or professional movers.
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Best movers from Chicago to Indianapolis

Best overall value
Safeway Moving Logo Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
4.9
  • checkmarkBest overall value
  • checkmarkVeteran owned
  • checkmarkPortion to charity
American Van Lines Logo American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
4.5
  • checkmarkCertified crews
  • checkmarkFlat-rate pricing
  • checkmarkFamily-owned
North American Van Lines Logo North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans
4.5
  • checkmark1,800 trucks
  • checkmarkStorage available
  • checkmarkCustomized moving plans
Allied Van Lines Logo Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
4.8
  • checkmarkSpecialty packing services
  • checkmarkWhite-glove reputation
  • checkmark80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation Logo Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
4.9
  • checkmarkFamily owned
  • checkmarkEast coast focus
  • checkmarkAffordable pricing

Best movers by type

Professional Icon
Professional
Container Icon
Container
Rental Truck Icon
Rental Truck
Freight Icon
Labor Only

Best professional movers from Chicago to Indianapolis

When it comes to handling your interstate move from Chicago to Indianapolis, 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.

In Chicago, you have a choice of 49 interstate moving companies. Let us introduce you to our top recommendations that will help you reach Indianapolis smoothly and with confidence.

Safeway Moving
checkmark Best overall value
checkmark Veteran owned
checkmark Portion to charity
American Van Lines
checkmark Certified crews
checkmark Flat-rate pricing
checkmark Family-owned
Allied Van Lines
checkmark Specialty packing services
checkmark White-glove reputation
checkmark 80+ years’ experience
Mayzlin Relocation
checkmark Family owned
checkmark East coast focus
checkmark Affordable pricing
North American Van Lines
checkmark 1,800 trucks
checkmark Storage available
checkmark Customized moving plans

Estimated cost to move from Chicago to Indianapolis

These cost ranges are approximate estimates based on a 183-mile move from Chicago to Indianapolis using pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha aggregates thousands of verified quotes from movers across the country and refreshes the dataset each month to track seasonal shifts and market changes. Your actual cost can differ based on shipment size, extra services, access or parking issues, fuel prices, and timing. We suggest gathering estimates from several companies to get the most accurate pricing.
Studio Icon

Studio / 1 bedroom

  • Moving Company $713 – $3,006
  • Moving Container $794 – $1,282
  • Rental Truck $208 – $335
Two Three Bed Icon

2-3 bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,287 – $3,794
  • Moving Container $963 – $1,842
  • Rental Truck $213 – $395
Four Bed Icon

4+ bedrooms

  • Moving Company $1,635 – $4,568
  • Moving Container $1,221 – $2,245
  • Rental Truck $255 – $491
Recent Moving Price Estimates
The following are real, anonymized quotes requested by moveBuddha readers in the past 48 hours. Prices change with dates and availability; use these as a ballpark, not a guarantee.
American Van Lines
Wilmette, IL Fishers, IN
1 Bedroom (small)
Oct 20, 2025
Safeway Moving
Clarendon Hills, IL Beech Grove, IN
1 Bedroom (large)
Oct 15, 2025
BLVD Moving
Carol Stream, IL New Palestine, IN
1 Bedroom (small)
Sep 25, 2025
Colonial Van Lines
Gurnee, IL Amo, IN
2 Bedrooms
Sep 24, 2025
Allied Van Lines
Geneva, IL Advance, IN
5+ Bedrooms
Sep 21, 2025
North American Van Lines
Dolton, IL Edinburgh, IN
2 Bedrooms
Sep 15, 2025
United Van Lines
Bedford Park, IL Jamestown, IN
Studio apartment
Sep 10, 2025
PODS
Lake Forest, IL Gosport, IN
1 Bedroom (small)
Aug 22, 2025
Roadway Moving
La Grange, IL Sheridan, IN
3 Bedrooms
Aug 17, 2025
Mayflower Transit
Crete, IL Atlanta, IN
5+ Bedrooms
Aug 11, 2025

Moving the opposite route? We got you covered with our moving from Indianapolis, IN to Chicago, IL guide.

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.

  1. New City Moving: 4.72 out of 5 stars
  2. STI Moving & Storage Inc.: 4.78 out of 5 stars
  3. The Professionals Moving Specialists: 4.66 out of 5 stars
  4. H2H Movers Inc: 4.64 out of 5 stars
  5. Move-tastic: 4.64 out of 5 stars
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.4% of all reviews were positive
5.9% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving magic happens when speed meets service—New City Moving delivers exactly that, according to 1,451 pieces of customer feedback analyzed. With 92.4% positive reviews, most customers rave about the company’s efficient service, professional and polite staff, careful handling, and quick turnaround—which set them apart from many competitors. A high number praised clear communication throughout the move. While affordability and responsiveness also stood out, some reported problems. About 6% said their main issue was damage to their belongings, unexpected charges, or struggles resolving complaints when things went wrong. Only 1.8% of feedback landed in the neutral zone, typically due to minor organizational or packing concerns rather than major failures. New City Moving earns above-average praise for efficiency and professionalism compared to other moving services, but a handful of customers cite billing, compensation, or damage disputes where they wanted swifter or better follow-up. For most, the company’s efforts made moving faster, simpler, and safer.
Get a Quote (773) 489-0600

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
68.4% of all reviews were positive
28.8% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
High marks for speed, professionalism, and careful handling set STI Moving & Storage apart from most competitors. In an analysis of 538 reviews, 68% reflect satisfied customers who consistently praise the efficient crews, friendly staff, and reliable communication. Many detail moves finished faster than expected, with careful packing and respect for belongings. Negative feedback (29%) focuses on damage to items, delays in delivery—especially for long-distance moves—and surprise or higher-than-expected charges. Customers also note issues with complex claims for damage resolution. Neutral feedback highlights occasional late arrivals and some pricing misalignments, but still mentions professionalism from staff. Compared to industry standards, STI earns stronger praise for crew attitude and efficiency but faces similar criticism to peers regarding damage claims and delivery timelines. Most customers find their moves easier and less stressful thanks to STI’s organized and diligent teams, though potential clients should review policies closely for long-distance or specialty needs.
Get a Quote (847) 675-1223

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
92.5% of all reviews were positive
5.6% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Word travels fast when a moving company makes relocations easier than expected. After analyzing 1,349 reviews, 92.5% of feedback for The Professionals Moving Specialists is positive. Customers routinely highlight efficient service, careful handling of belongings, moving crews that work quickly, a professional attitude, and clear communication. People appreciate arriving on time, speedy completion, and the rare occurrence of damage compared to other movers. The overwhelming majority find the booking process straightforward, pricing fair, and the teams respectful of property and special requests. Some input does point to a few drawbacks: complaints about items being scratched or dented, final charges being higher than expected due to extra materials or time, and unexpected add-ons. These issues are reported far less often than praise for skilled, polite, and diligent crews. Compared to most moving companies, The Professionals stand out with stronger reliability and care for customer property. If dependability, efficiency, and peace of mind are top priorities, this company outperforms many local competitors.
Get a Quote (888) 225-7351

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
88.0% of all reviews were positive
9.2% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Moving day just got easier for H2H customers. Out of 640 real customer reviews analyzed, a remarkable 88% delivered positive feedback, placing H2H Movers above most competitors in the moving industry. Clients most frequently highlighted the company’s efficient service, careful handling of possessions, professional and polite staff, great communication, and a quick moving process. People appreciated teams who arrived on time, completed moves ahead of schedule, and made stressful relocations feel manageable, often noting that quoted prices were accurate or even lower than expected. On the other hand, the most common complaints were unexpected charges, occasional damage to items, and delays in arrival or delivery. A few customers reported being billed more than their estimates due to extra fees or poor packing, and some faced slow resolution for claims or communication gaps after their move. While some neutral reviews cited problems with lost items or payment methods, these were far less frequent than the praise received. H2H Movers stands out with efficient, reliable, and friendly crews—a reputation that exceeds the service level of many moving companies, though attention to transparent billing and timeliness could make experiences even better.
Get a Quote (773) 236-8797

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
https://www.facebook.com/BellhopMoving/, https://twitter.com/BellhopMoving
91.2% of all reviews were positive
7.1% of reviews were negative
Read Reviews
Review Analysis
Move-tastic moves customers with speed, skill, and care that set the standard for Chicago moving companies. After reviewing 1,169 pieces of feedback, 91% praised their efficient service, careful handling, professionalism, quick moves, and friendly staff—qualities mentioned far more than in most moving company reviews. Customers frequently highlight how the moving teams are not only fast and organized, but also protect homes and belongings with diligence and respect, often completing jobs ahead of schedule and below the original estimate. The booking process and communication draw special mention for ease and transparency. Conversely, 7% of customers cite issues such as damage to items, unexpected costs, or delayed arrival, reflecting the main patterns among negative input. Some report furniture scratches or losses, with a few noting the claims process or repair follow-up as challenging; a handful mentioned bills far exceeding quoted rates or frustration over slow moves. Neutral feedback—just under 2%—pointed to sporadic minor mishaps, price increases, or items misplaced and later returned. Move-tastic’s positive feedback dominates, and problems are less common than with most regional competitors, though the risk of damage or extra fees still exists. When compared to others, it’s the combination of outstanding efficiency, careful work, and friendly attitude that keeps so many customers recommending Move-tastic again and again.
Get a Quote (773) 715-3227

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
*These price ranges are rough estimates for a 183-mile move from Chicago to Indianapolis, based on pricing data compiled by moveBuddha as of Nov 07, 2025. moveBuddha gathers thousands of verified price points from movers nationwide and refreshes the dataset monthly to reflect seasonal shifts and market trends. Your final cost can change with factors like move size, add-on services, parking or access constraints, fuel rates, and timing. We recommend comparing quotes from multiple movers to get the most accurate pricing.

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.

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