Best California to Indiana Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from California to Indiana and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,309 mile CA to IN move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 342 California to Indiana 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in California compared to Indiana. 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.

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Best California to Indiana Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1OCD Moving Services LLC9.679.47Authorized For HHG
2Pure Moving9.649.49Authorized For HHG
3Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.9.639.59Authorized For HHG
4Best California Movers9.539.73Authorized For HHG
5MVM Moving & Storage9.249.4Authorized For HHG
6Bulldogs Moving Co.9.149.47Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from California to Indiana?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,309 miles from California to Indiana will cost on average $3,745 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom CA to IN move is roughly $9,044. 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 in California and dropoff in Indiana 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 California to Indiana movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,512300 ft³$8.37
1 Bedroom$3,745450 ft³$8.32
2 Bedrooms$6,204750 ft³$8.27
3 Bedrooms$9,0441100 ft³$8.22
4 Bedrooms$13,0751600 ft³$8.17
5+ Bedrooms$14,6191800 ft³$8.12
*Please note: These California to Indiana moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Indiana. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to IN mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indiana to California guide.

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Compare the 6 Best CA to IN Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo

OCD Moving Services LLC

Exceptional9.67/10
based on 2,922+ data points

5914 Cobblestone Ct

El Sobrante, CA, 94803

About OCD Moving Services LLC

For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Pure Moving Logo

Pure Moving

Exceptional9.64/10
based on 7,662+ data points

1450 2nd St ste 225

Santa Monica, CA, 90401

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 clients...

Services

  • Residential moving
  • Commercial moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3207734 / 1115049

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. Logo

Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.

Exceptional9.63/10
based on 1,498+ data points

Chico, CA, 95973

About Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc.

Murdock's Moving & Hauling Inc. makes it a point to go above and beyond in every moving job. This includes giving...

Services

  • Local & Long Distance Moving
  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3421940 / 1416634

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2024)
View Full Review
3
Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.53/10
based on 2,643+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
MVM Moving & Storage Logo

MVM Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.24/10
based on 1,174+ data points

6429 Highview Dr

Fort Wayne, IN, 46818

About MVM Moving & Storage

Since 2006, MVM Moving and Storage has been assisting residents of Fort Wayne, IN, streamline their relocation process with its cost-effective...

Services

  • Residential Move
  • Commercial Move
  • Local Move

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 11/29/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3098388 / 76046

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved75,000 (2021)
View Full Review
5
Bulldogs Moving Co. Logo

Bulldogs Moving Co.

Exceptional9.14/10
based on 478+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/11/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3784131 / 1472268

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2021)
View Full Review
6
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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.

Pros and Cons of Moving from California to Indiana

Moving from California to Indiana requires a careful balance of expectations. This guide presents an honest comparison to explore the pros and cons of relocating from California to Indiana , helping you weigh both the benefits and challenges of such a move.

CONs
PROs
California iconCalifornia
  • High cost of living
  • Traffic congestion
  • Wildfire risk
  • Earthquake risk
  • High taxes
Indiana iconIndiana
  • Affordable housing
  • Less traffic
  • Fewer natural disasters
  • Safer weather conditions
  • Lower taxes
Indiana iconIndiana
  • Landlocked state
  • Less diversity
  • Fewer entertainment options
  • Cold winters
  • Fewer tech jobs
California iconCalifornia
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Diverse culture
  • Extensive entertainment
  • Mild winters
  • Tech industry hub

When considering the move from California to Indiana, you’ll notice significant changes in lifestyle and environment. In Indiana, the cost of living is dramatically lower, allowing you to find more affordable housing, perhaps in areas like Carmel or Fishers. Indianapolis, Indiana's bustling capital, offers various attractions and a vibrant city life with parks like Eagle Creek Park and culinary experiences in the Fountain Square neighborhood. However, you'll miss the mild winters and extensive tech career opportunities found in California. While Indiana is known for its friendly communities, you'll need to adapt to colder temperatures and fewer entertainment options. The charm of quaint towns and the peace of fewer natural disasters may offer a refreshing change from California's fast-paced environment.

California vs. Indiana Food Guide

Comparing the local cuisine between California & Indiana sheds light on the rich diversity and cultural significance of food in these areas. Understanding the food scene where you're moving can significantly enhance your relocation experience, helping you to immerse in and appreciate the local culture better.

California
Indiana
Most iconic local food item
Avocado Toast
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Tri-tip Steak
Beef and Noodles
Most popular street food item
Tacos
Corn Dogs
Most popular vegan food
Plant-based Burgers
Seitan Steak
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state
  • Chef Tanya’s Kitchen
  • The French Laundry
  • In-N-Out Burger
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Blue's Canoe Livery
  • Three Carrots Pub
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In California, the food scene is vividly diverse with health-conscious options being a significant focus. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are bursting with food trucks offering everything from gourmet tacos to avant-garde vegan dishes. Places such as Chef Tanya’s Kitchen and The French Laundry showcase the state's commitment to innovative and high-quality cuisine. Indiana’s food landscape, while different, has its charm with home-style comfort foods dominating. The pork tenderloin sandwich is a must-try, and for a true taste of Indiana, visiting establishments like St. Elmo Steak House offers an authentic experience. Both states provide unique culinary adventures, promising to be a feast for the senses.

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California vs. Indiana Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a critical factor in relocating, making it essential to understand how California and Indiana compare in aspects like housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle amenities. This comparison aims to provide clarity and assist in making an informed decision.

California
Indiana
Typical Architecture Style
Modern, Spanish
Colonial, Ranch
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to the ocean, Energy-efficient features
Large yards, Proximity to schools

Choosing between California and Indiana involves weighing distinct lifestyles and housing markets. California's real estate boasts modern and Spanish architectural styles and is priced significantly higher, reflecting its coastal living and energy-efficient homes, catering to those who prioritize proximity to the ocean and an urban lifestyle. Conversely, Indiana offers more affordable housing with traditional Colonial and Ranch styles, emphasizing larger yards and schools close by. This makes Indiana appealing for those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle with a focus on community and family-friendly amenities.

California vs. Indiana Weather Considerations

Understanding how the weather in California compared to Indiana might affect you is crucial when planning a move. This comparison will highlight climatic differences, helping you adjust to your new environment.

California
Indiana
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Tornados, Floods
Air Quality
Varies widely, generally moderate
Generally good, urban areas can be moderate
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F / 57°F
85°F / 64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

68°F / 48°F
36°F / 20°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

22
42
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

0-5 (varies by region)
22


While both California and Indiana enjoy warm summers, the winter season brings a stark contrast, with Indiana experiencing significantly colder temperatures and more snowfall. Interestingly, while both states deal with natural disasters, the types they encounter differ, with California being prone to earthquakes and wildfires, whereas Indiana faces tornados and floods. Another noteworthy aspect is the higher annual humidity and fewer days of sunshine in Indiana, which might require some adjustments if you're moving from the generally sunnier and drier California.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from California to Indiana

When relocating from one state to another, observing the financial landscape can significantly impact your decision-making. By comparing key economic factors, you'll understand how the cost of living and financial opportunities in California stack up against those in Indiana, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

California
Indiana
Avg. Household Income
$91,551
$66,785
Cost of Living Index
136.4
92.95
State Income Tax
1 - 13.3%
3.23%
Avg. Property Tax
0.73%
0.87%
Avg. Sales Tax
8.68%
7.00%
Top 3 Industries
Technology, Entertainment, Agriculture
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Agriculture
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
Low
Homelessness
High
Low


Relocating from California to Indiana, you'll discover significant cost of living differences. For example, the average household income in California is higher, but so is the cost of living. Indiana offers a more affordable housing market, with a lower cost of living index and consistent state income tax rate. Notably, both states share agriculture as a key industry but diverge with California's strong presence in technology and entertainment versus Indiana's focus on manufacturing and healthcare. Understanding these differences will enable you to better navigate your financial transition.

California vs. Indiana Political & Religious Comparison

In this quick comparison, we explore the comparison of the politics between California & Indiana , alongside a glance at the prevailing religious beliefs of each state's residents. This overview aims to furnish you with an at-a-glance understanding of the political and religious landscape you're moving from and to.

California
Indiana
Political Make-up
Liberal/Democratic
Conservative/Republican
Local Politics
Progressive urban centers
Conservative with progressive pockets
Religion
Multicultural and diverse
Predominantly Christian

When considering the political and religious makeup of California and Indiana, you'll encounter distinct differences. California is known for its liberal stance and progressive politics, especially in urban areas, contributing to a diverse and multicultural environment which supports a wide array of religions and beliefs. On the other hand, Indiana leans more conservative, with a largely Christian population influencing its local politics, although you'll find progressive pockets, particularly in academic communities and urban neighborhoods. Understanding these dynamics will help you anticipate and adapt to the cultural shift as you make your move.

Education Guide When Moving from California to Indiana

Moving across state lines entails a load of considerations, especially when it comes to education for your family. To aid your decision-making, we’ve compared the educational landscapes of California and Indiana, focusing on schools and districts. The purpose of this chart is to better understand the comparisons between school options in California and Indiana.

CaliforniaIndiana

Where most Seniors go to college (top 3)

UCLA
UC Berkeley
Stanford University
Indiana University
Purdue University
University of Notre Dame

Top 3 Elementary Schools

Waldorf School of Peninsula (Los Altos)
Hollywood Schoolhouse (Los Angeles)
The Nueva School (Hillsborough)
Signature School Inc. (Evansville)
West Lafayette Community School Corporation (West Lafayette)
Fall Creek Elementary (Fishers)

Top 3 Middle Schools

The Nueva School (Hillsborough)
The Mirman School (Los Angeles)
Castilleja School (Palo Alto)
West Lafayette Jr/Sr High School (West Lafayette)
Brown County Junior High (Nashville)
Fall Creek Junior High (Fishers)

Top 3 High School Schools

Henry M. Gunn High School (Palo Alto)
Troy High School (Fullerton)
Whitney High School (Cerritos)
Signature School Inc. (Evansville)
Carmel High School (Carmel)
West Lafayette Jr/Sr High School (West Lafayette)

Top 3 private high schools

The Thacher School (Ojai)
Harvard-Westlake School (Los Angeles)
The College Preparatory School (Oakland)
Culver Academies (Culver)
Park Tudor School (Indianapolis)
Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School (Indianapolis)

Top 3 private K-12 schools

The Nueva School (Hillsborough)
Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences (Santa Monica)
Head-Royce School (Oakland)
Traders Point Christian Academy (Whitestown)
University High School of Indiana (Carmel)
The Orchard School (Indianapolis)

Top 3 School Districts

Palo Alto Unified School District
San Marino Unified School District
Irvine Unified School District
Carmel Clay Schools
West Lafayette Community School Corporation
Zionsville Community Schools

When comparing educational opportunities between California and Indiana, it's evident that both states offer exceptional choices for families. In California, institutions like UCLA and Stanford University highlight the state's strong emphasis on higher education excellence. Meanwhile, Indiana's notable institutions, including Purdue University and University of Notre Dame, showcase a commitment to producing distinguished professionals. Noteworthy is California's The Nueva School, a leader in innovative education for grades pre-K through 12, compared to Indiana's Signature School Inc., the state's standout for combining rigorous academics with a diverse curriculum. Whether seeking top-tier elementary education or distinguished high schools, both states cater to a range of educational preferences with their excellent districts and private institutions.

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