Best Washington DC to Indianapolis Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Washington DC to Indianapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 592 mile move from DC to Indiana go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 39 Washington DC 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 Bookstore Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Washington DC 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.

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Best Washington DC to Indianapolis Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Bookstore Movers9.609.55Authorized For HHG
2Mic's Moving9.609.56Authorized For HHG
3Ap Pro Moving Llc9.459.39Active
4Bulldogs Moving Co.9.149.47Authorized For HHG
5Soft Touch Moving8.858.86Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Washington DC to Indianapolis?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 592 miles from Washington DC, DC to Indianapolis, IN will cost on average $2,285 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Washington DC to Indianapolis move is roughly $5,475. 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 SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$1,538300 ft³$5.13
1 Bedroom$2,285450 ft³$5.08
2 Bedrooms$3,770750 ft³$5.03
3 Bedrooms$5,4751100 ft³$4.98
4 Bedrooms$7,8831600 ft³$4.93
5+ Bedrooms$8,7791800 ft³$4.88
*Please note: These DC to Indiana moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from DC & 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 DC to IN mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indianapolis to Washington DC guide.

Compare the 5 Best Washington DC to Indianapolis Movers

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

Bookstore Movers Logo

Bookstore Movers

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 6,057+ data points

5200 46th Ave

Hyattsville, MD, 20781

About Bookstore Movers

Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business values....

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/15/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2005212 / 707471

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans21
Registered Drivers21
Total Annual Miles Moved153,245 (2019)
View Full Review
1
Mic's Moving Logo

Mic's Moving

Exceptional9.60/10
based on 3,605+ data points

1250 9th st. nw

Washington DC, DC, 20011

About Mic's Moving

Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and...

Services

  • Local Move
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2474176 / 856657

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved40,000 (2019)
View Full Review
2
Ap Pro Moving Llc Logo

Ap Pro Moving Llc

Exceptional9.45/10
based on 343+ data points

5021 Seminary Rd # 822

Alexandria, VA, 22311

About Ap Pro Moving Llc

Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Packing Services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/6/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3338902 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved4,000 (2021)
View Full Review
3
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
4
Soft Touch Moving Logo

Soft Touch Moving

Superb8.85/10
based on 162+ data points

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

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 5/20/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

707793 / 331362

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans7
Registered Drivers7
Total Annual Miles Moved150,000 (2023)
View Full Review
5
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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.

Washington DC vs. Indianapolis Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be challenging, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a guide that compares the popular neighborhoods in Washington DC, DC & Indianapolis, IN , so you can find an area that feels like home before you even arrive. By matching the vibes, amenities, and community feel of neighborhoods in both cities, we aim to provide a smoother relocation experience.

Washington DCIndianapolisHow They're Similar
Dupont CircleBroad RippleVibrant nightlife, arts scene
GeorgetownMeridian-KesslerHistoric homes, upscale shopping
Capitol HillIrvingtonHistoric architecture, community-centric
Adams MorganFountain SquareDiverse, eclectic dining and entertainment
Logan CircleOld NorthsideChic living, close to downtown
Columbia HeightsMass AveCultural hub, diverse food scene
Navy YardWholesale DistrictWaterfront dining, entertainment
ShawBroad RippleMusical heritage, niche boutiques
PetworthGarfield ParkFamily-friendly, community parks
NoMaFletcher PlaceModern development, trendy spots

If you're drawn to the artistic vibe and diverse eateries of Adams Morgan, you'll find a kindred spirit in Indianapolis's Fountain Square. This neighborhood is flourishing with unique restaurants, such as the Bluebeard, offering a contemporary American dining experience in a renovated 1924 warehouse. Broad Ripple mirrors Dupont Circle's vibrancy with a dynamic nightlife and cultural venues, anchored by the Indianapolis Art Center. Transitioning from the Georgetown of Washington, D.C., to Indianapolis's Meridian-Kessler, you will still enjoy strolling along tree-lined streets past stately homes, with boutiques and cafes like those at 49th & Penn. These neighborhood pairings are not just about finding a new home; they're about rediscovering the community and lifestyle you love in a new city.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Washington DC to Indianapolis

Making the move from Washington DC, DC to Indianapolis, IN requires a deep dive into what you're leaving behind and what awaits you. This comparison sheds light on the transformation in lifestyle, living costs, and opportunities, showing an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation.

CONs
PROs
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • High living costs
  • Heavy traffic
  • Dense population
  • Political focus
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Lower living costs
  • Lighter traffic
  • More space
  • Diverse industries
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Less diverse dining
  • Fewer historical sites
  • More traditional fare
  • Less political buzz
Washington DC, DC iconWashington DC, DC
  • Vibrant culture
  • Rich history
  • Global cuisine
  • Political engagement

While Washington D.C. boasts a rich tapestry of cultural landmarks such as the Smithsonian museums, the Lincoln Memorial, and a vibrant dining scene with global cuisines ranging from Ethiopian to Peruvian, Indianapolis offers its own charm. In Indianapolis, you'll find the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, lush neighborhood parks like Eagle Creek Park, and family-friendly attractions such as the Indianapolis Zoo. The city is also home to cozy coffee shops like Broad Ripple Village and highly acclaimed restaurants such as Bluebeard. Despite what might initially seem to be cons when moving from a bustling capital to a quieter city, the transition presents an opportunity for a more relaxed lifestyle, with the benefits of lower living costs and more personal space.

Washington DC vs. Indianapolis Food Guide

Food is a profound reflection of local culture and living experience. As you plan your move, understanding the culinary scene is vital for a smooth transition. Therefore, we have compared the local cuisine between Washington DC & Indianapolis to better inform you about the food environment you are stepping into.

Washington DC
Indianapolis
Most iconic local food item
Half-Smoke
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Most popular meat dish
Fried Chicken
Smoked Pork Ribs
Most popular street food item
Falafel
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Impossible Burger
Seitan Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Ben's Chili Bowl
  • Zaytinya
  • Rose's Luxury
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Bluebeard
  • Milktooth
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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Vegan Friendly
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In Washington DC, the Half-Smoke, found widely at Ben's Chili Bowl, encapsulates the unique flair of the city's culinary scene. Whereas in Indianapolis, the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, a staple that can be savored in spots like Milktooth, showcases regional tastes. Both cities boast a rich assortment of vegan options, with DC edging slightly ahead in terms of diversity and availability. While Washington DC enjoys a vibrant food truck landscape, evident in areas like Capitol Hill, Indianapolis offers a burgeoning foodie scene centered around neighborhoods like Fountain Square. These culinary contrasts not only reflect the unique cultures of each city but also highlight the evolving palates of their residents.

Washington DC vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in making an area feel like home. For those considering a move from Washington DC to Indianapolis, this restaurant comparison will effortlessly guide you in discovering your new favorite spots, drawing parallels from your old local haunts to soon-to-be favorites in your new city.

Washington DCIndianapolisWhat You'll Love
Le DiplomateCafé PatachouSimilar upscale bistro vibe with a strong brunch culture.
Blue Duck TavernBluebeardFarm-to-table dishes that echo Blue Duck's commitment to fresh, American cuisine.
ZaytinyaSaffron CafeAuthentic Mediterranean flavors in a vibrant, friendly environment.
Ben's Chili BowlThe EagleComparable casual setting known for comfort food, with a focus on fried chicken instead of chili.
RasikaSpice BoxInnovative take on Indian cuisine, offering a modern dining experience.
Bad SaintKapnos TavernaThough Greek, it provides a similarly intimate, highly regarded culinary adventure.
Fiola MareOceanaire Seafood RoomPremium seafood dining with an elegant atmosphere that parallels Fiola Mare.
2 Amy's Neapolitan PizzeriaNapoleseArtisanal pizzas that pay homage to the traditional Neapolitan technique.
Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone CrabSt. Elmo Steak HouseHistoric steakhouse environment with a nod to classic American seafood and steak dishes.
Busboys and PoetsThe Garden TableCultivates a similar ethos with a focus on sustainability and community engagement.

For those who cherished the diverse and vibrant flavors of Washington DC, Indianapolis presents a culinary landscape ripe with equally compelling choices. Consider the seamless transition from the sophisticated European flair of Le Diplomate in DC to the homey yet refined atmosphere of Café Patachou in Indianapolis. Both offer spaces where brunch becomes an experience rather than just a meal. Fans of Indian cuisine will delight in the creative and modern approach of Spice Box as an intriguing counterpoint to the nuanced flavors and elegant presentations they loved at Rasika. Each restaurant listed here not only promises to meet your dining expectations but also invites you to weave your story into the fabric of Indianapolis's dynamic food scene.

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Ready to start your move?

Washington DC vs. Indianapolis Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing real estate between Washington DC and Indianapolis could help you make an informed decision. Understanding the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle amenities of these cities is crucial. Let's delve into how these two cities square up in the real estate arena.

Washington DC
Indianapolis
Typical Architecture Style
Federal and Victorian
Arts & Crafts, Colonial
Walkability
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Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Proximity to Metro, Historic details
Spacious yards, Affordable living

Between Washington DC and Indianapolis, the contrast in housing affordability is stark, with DC's median home price significantly higher. This reflects the city's high demand and limited space. Although DC boasts better walkability and a vibrant urban lifestyle, it comes at a premium. Conversely, Indianapolis offers more affordable living, spacious properties, and a slightly quieter urban experience. For bike enthusiasts, DC's infrastructure is more accommodating, while both cities showcase unique architectural styles that cater to different tastes — DC with its historic Federal and Victorian homes, and Indianapolis with its charming Arts & Crafts and Colonial residences. Whether you're drawn to the bustling city life of Washington DC or the affordable, expansive environment of Indianapolis, each city offers distinct advantages depending on your lifestyle preferences and budget.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Indianapolis, IN

1. Broad Ripple Village : You’ll love walking your furry friends through this vibrant area, which offers numerous pet-friendly parks and outdoor cafes.

2. Fountain Square : This lively neighborhood provides ample space for pet lovers with its various walking trails and pet-friendly restaurants.

3. Irvington : Known for its charming streets and community atmosphere, Irvington offers plenty of green space for playful pets and their owners.

Washington DC vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations

Moving from one place to another, like from Washington DC to Indianapolis, requires understanding how weather varies between your current and future home. This comparison will help you prepare for the differences you'll experience.

Washington DC
Indianapolis
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Hurricanes, Floods
Tornadoes, Floods
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

87°F / 71°F
85°F / 66°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

47°F / 30°F
35°F / 20°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

40"
42"
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

15.4"
22"


While both Washington DC and Indianapolis have their share of hot summers and cold winters, Indianapolis experiences colder winters with more snowfall. This means you should be prepared for more snowy days and possibly more challenging road conditions in winter. Additionally, Indianapolis tends to have slightly more days of rain and fewer sunshine days compared to DC, which could require an adjustment in your daily routine and outdoor activities. Both cities manage similar humidity levels and face risks from different natural disasters, highlighting the importance of local awareness and preparedness after your move.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington DC to Indianapolis

When contemplating a move from one city to another, it's essential to grasp how the cost of living and financial landscape between Washington DC and Indianapolis will affect your wallet. This comparison aims to shed light on just that, helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.

Washington DC
Indianapolis
Avg. Household Income
$90,088
$58,479
Cost of Living Index
140.1
87.2
State Income Tax
Up to 8.95%
3.23%
Avg. Property Tax
0.56%
0.81%
Avg. Sales Tax
6%
7%
Top 3 Industries
Government, Professional Services, Education
Manufacturing, Health Care, Retail
Affluence
High
Moderate
Poverty
Moderate
Higher
Homelessness
Noticeable
Lesser

When moving from Washington DC to Indianapolis, you'll notice significant differences in the financial landscape. Despite the higher average household income in DC, the city's cost of living index is substantially higher than in Indianapolis, which may stretch your dollar further in the Midwest. State income tax rates are also much lower in Indiana, providing another layer of savings. However, the economic atmosphere shifts, with Indianapolis boasting a strong manufacturing sector unlike DC's government and professional services-driven market. Understanding these nuances can help you prepare financially for your new life in Indianapolis.

Washington DC vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison

Considering a move from Washington DC to Indianapolis? It's essential to grasp not just the surface differences but dive deeper into the comparison of the politics between Washington DC & Indianapolis and the religious landscape of both cities. This quick guide provides an at-a-glance snapshot to help you understand the political and religious makeup of the residents in both places.

Washington DC
Indianapolis
Political Make-up
Heavily Democratic
Mixed, leans Republican
Local Politics
Focus on federal government and international relations
Concentrated on state-level and Midwest regional matters
Religion
Diverse religious landscape with significant Christian and non-Christian communities
Primarily Christian, with a predominant Protestant influence

When moving from Washington DC, prepare for a new political climate as Indianapolis tends to lean more Republican, contrasting with DC's Democratic stronghold. This difference in political makeup might be noticeable in local politics where Indianapolis focuses more on state-level and Midwest regional matters, compared to DC’s emphasis on federal government issues and international relations. Religion plays a significant role in both cities' cultural tapestries; however, you’ll find Indianapolis has a predominantly Christian demographic, especially Protestant, differing from DC's diverse religious landscape that encompasses a wide array of beliefs and practices. Understanding these nuances can help you anticipate the cultural shifts and adapt more comfortably to your new home.

Washington DC vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Washington DC to Indianapolis? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Indianapolis will help you understand what to expect in terms of daily commutes and driving experiences in your new city.

Washington DC
Indianapolis
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
34.4
25.8
Traffic Congestion
7 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
9 out of 10
3 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Yes, quite easily
Challenging, but possible in some areas

In Washington DC, the public transit system is robust, with options ranging from buses and trains to bike-share programs, allowing residents to easily navigate the city without a car. On the other hand, Indianapolis has a more car-dependent culture, although efforts are being made to improve public transit options, such as IndyGo's Red Line. Traffic congestion in DC can significantly impact your commute time, making public transit a more appealing option for many. Conversely, Indianapolis experiences lighter traffic, making driving a more convenient, although not always necessary, choice for getting around.

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