Best Indianapolis to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Indianapolis to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,085 mile move from Indiana to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 48 Indianapolis to Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Indianapolis compared to Los Angeles. 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 Indianapolis to Los Angeles Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Best California Movers9.539.73Authorized For HHG
2Moving Pro, Inc.9.479.01Authorized For Property, HHG
3Bulldogs Moving Co.9.149.47Authorized For HHG
4Soft Touch Moving8.858.86Authorized For HHG
5You Move Me Indianapolis8.768.32Authorized For HHG
Phone (800) 787-5428

How Much Does it Cost to Move from Indianapolis to Los Angeles?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,085 miles from Indianapolis, IN to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $3,554 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Indianapolis to Los Angeles move is roughly $8,578. 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$2,385300 ft³$7.95
1 Bedroom$3,554450 ft³$7.90
2 Bedrooms$5,886750 ft³$7.85
3 Bedrooms$8,5781100 ft³$7.80
4 Bedrooms$12,3971600 ft³$7.75
5+ Bedrooms$13,8571800 ft³$7.70
*Please note: These Indiana to California moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Indiana & California. 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 IN to CA mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Indianapolis guide.

Compare the 5 Best Indianapolis to Los Angeles Movers

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

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
1
Moving Pro, Inc. Logo

Moving Pro, Inc.

Exceptional9.47/10
based on 1,253+ data points

557 Vernon Ave

Venice, CA, 90291

About Moving Pro, Inc.

Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Car Transportation

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1864442 / 675888

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved26,800 (2023)
View Full Review
2
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
3
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
4
You Move Me Indianapolis Logo

You Move Me Indianapolis

Superb8.76/10
based on 1,158+ data points

Speedway, IN, 46224

About You Move Me Indianapolis

You Move Me Indianapolis is a professional moving company founded in September 2012 with the goal of revolutionizing the local moving...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Senior Moving
  • Premium Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3821121 / 1382732

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2022)
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.

Indianapolis vs. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison

Moving cities can feel like navigating uncharted territories. To ease this transition, we're offering a comparison to align Indianapolis, IN neighborhoods with their Los Angeles, CA counterparts. This guide will help you find a slice of familiarity in your new city, making the big move a little less daunting.

IndianapolisLos AngelesHow They're Similar
Broad RippleSilver LakeVibrant nightlife, arts scene
Fountain SquareEcho ParkEclectic, artistic community
Meridian-KesslerHancock ParkHistoric homes, family-friendly
CarmelStudio CityUpscale, suburban feel
FishersSherman OaksFamily-oriented, suburban
ZionsvilleCalabasasAffluent, peaceful community
Mass AveAbbot Kinney (Venice)Trendy shopping, dining
IrvingtonLos FelizHistoric charm, vibrant community
GeistMalibuLakeside (or oceanside) living, upscale
NoraEncinoFamily-centric, quiet suburb

If you're drawn to the vibrant nightlife and arts scene of Broad Ripple, you'll find a spirited kindred spirit in Silver Lake, known for its dynamic bars and creativity. For those charmed by the eclectic and artistic vibe of Fountain Square, Echo Park offers an equally diverse cultural palette, inviting a blend of musicians, artists, and foodies. Appreciators of historic architecture and a strong sense of community in Meridian-Kessler will feel at home in Hancock Park, where manicured lawns front stunning estates reminiscent of bygone eras. On the other hand, the suburban comfort and upscale living found in Carmel have a parallel in Studio City, offering a cozy but refined lifestyle, ideal for those seeking a mix of metropolitan amenities with a less urban pace. Ultimately, this guide's aim is to help you navigate the vast expanse of Los Angeles through the familiar lenses of Indianapolis neighborhoods, ensuring you find a new home that resonates with your preferences.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Los Angeles

Making the move from Indianapolis to Los Angeles is a journey filled with changes, both challenging and rewarding. This guide aims to reflect honestly on the Indianapolis and Los Angeles living experiences, laying out the good and the bad to help you make an informed decision. Here's how the two cities compare:

CONs
PROs
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Cold winters
  • Smaller job market
  • Less nightlife
  • Fewer cultural events
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Diverse opportunities
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Rich cultural scene
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • High cost of living
  • Spread-out city
  • Heavy traffic
  • More pollution
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Affordable living
  • Close-knit communities
  • Lower traffic
  • Abundant green spaces

The lower cost of living and tight-knit communities you've come to appreciate in Indianapolis might give way to the sun-soaked avenues and the dizzying array of cultural, dining, and career opportunities in Los Angeles. While the cost of living certainly jumps, Los Angeles compensates with its vibrant lifestyle. Neighborhoods such as Silver Lake and Venice Beach boast quaint cafés like Intelligentsia Coffee and innovative eateries such as Gjelina, alongside the iconic sights of Griffith Park and the Getty Center. The transition may include some challenges, like navigating the infamous LA traffic or adjusting to the pace of the city, but the rich cultural tapestry and endless sunny days present a lifestyle that's hard to match elsewhere.

Indianapolis vs. Los Angeles Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Los Angeles, illustrating how food reflects the cultural diversity and lifestyle of an area. Through this comparison, you'll gain insights into what you can expect from the food scene in your new city.

Indianapolis
Los Angeles
Most iconic local food item
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Fish Tacos
Most popular meat dish
Beef Brisket
Korean BBQ
Most popular street food item
Sugar Cream Pie
Street Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan BBQ Ribs
Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Bluebeard
  • Milktooth
  • Pink's Hot Dogs
  • Providence
  • Guisados
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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When considering your move from Indianapolis to Los Angeles, you’ll find Los Angeles's food scene incredibly diverse, offering a wide array of flavors and cuisines to suit any palate. Neighborhoods like Koreatown offer an unparalleled experience for fans of Korean BBQ, while the city's countless food trucks provide an eclectic mix of street food, notably the iconic street tacos found throughout the area. Vegan and health-conscious eaters will also find Los Angeles accommodating, with establishments like Café Gratitude in the Arts District catering to a vegan lifestyle. Discovering LA’s food scene, you’ll not only find classic dishes like fish tacos but also innovative culinary experiences that reflect the city’s multicultural fabric.

Indianapolis vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison

Understanding the importance of food in making a new city feel like home, this comparison aims to bridge the culinary gap for those moving from Indianapolis to Los Angeles. By matching top dining spots in Indianapolis with their Los Angeles equivalents, we facilitate a smoother transition in discovering new favorite eateries using Indianapolis as a guide for those relocating to Los Angeles. Whether you're seeking a high-end dining experience, casual bites, or iconic dishes, this guide has got you covered.

IndianapolisLos AngelesWhat You'll Love
St. Elmo Steak HouseBOA SteakhouseBoth offer a classic steakhouse experience with a focus on prime cuts and elegant dining.
BluebeardRepubliqueSimilar in offering inventive, farm-to-table fare in a stylish, renovated space that emphasizes local ingredients.
MilktoothSqirlBoth are beloved for their innovative breakfast and brunch menus that elevate morning dining with creative dishes.
The EagleHowlin' Ray'sWhile known for Nashville hot chicken, it delivers an atmosphere and dedication to quality similar to The Eagle’s fried chicken.
BeholderBestiaBoth restaurants are known for their unique, boundary-pushing dishes in an industrial-chic setting.
Cafe PatachouJoan's on ThirdCafes that boast a cozy vibe with a strong emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients and mouth-watering pastries.
Brugge BrasserieWurstkücheWhile specializing in sausages, they also bring a strong beer selection and a similar European vibe.
Ironworks Hotel Indy (Rize)The Rose VeniceBoth offer a relaxed dining experience with a focus on innovative and health-conscious meals.
Tinker StreetGjelinaBoth places create a cozy atmosphere where guests can enjoy well-crafted, seasonal dishes with a focus on local produce.
Zest! Exciting Food CreationsBotanica Restaurant & MarketTheir shared commitment to vibrant, flavorful, and health-focused meals makes them akin.

Dining out is not just about the food but also the ambience, service, and the memories created at the table. For instance, making the transition from St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis to BOA Steakhouse in Los Angeles means you don't have to compromise on the quality and experience of a high-end steak dinner. The farm-to-table emphasis seen at Bluebeard finds a kindred spirit in Los Angeles at Republique, showcasing that no matter the distance, the dedication to fresh, local ingredients and innovative dishes travels with you. Similarly, the unique, modern approach to comfort food that places like Milktooth and Beholder are known for in Indianapolis is mirrored in LA offerings like Sqirl and Bestia. This ensures that even when you're miles away from what was familiar, you can still find a place that feels like home—one meal at a time.

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Indianapolis vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move from Indianapolis, IN to Los Angeles, CA, understanding the housing landscape is crucial. This comparison sheds light on the differences in cost, architecture, and lifestyle between these two cities, providing a clearer picture for your decision.

Indianapolis
Los Angeles
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Ranch
Modern, Spanish
Walkability
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Bikeability
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Urban Lifestyle
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Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious yards, family-friendly
Proximity to amenities, ocean views

The jump in housing cost from Indianapolis to Los Angeles is substantial, reflecting the high demand and limited availability in LA's bustling environment. However, the cost comes with perks such as better walkability, giving you easy access to a myriad of amenities and a vibrant urban lifestyle. While homes in Indianapolis often boast spacious yards perfect for families, Los Angeles offers unique architectural gems—ranging from sleek modern to classic Spanish styles—not to mention the highly coveted ocean views. These contrasting elements highlight the diverse living experiences between these two cities, tailoring to different preferences and lifestyles.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

1. Santa Monica : You’ll enjoy the abundance of parks, beachfront walkways, and dog-friendly restaurants that make Santa Monica perfect for your pet.

2. West Hollywood : Known for its pet-friendly apartment buildings and off-leash dog parks, you’ll find West Hollywood a welcoming spot for your furry friends.

3. Silver Lake : With its ample green spaces, dog-friendly cafes, and popular dog park, Silver Lake offers a vibrant community for you and your pet.

Indianapolis vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Indianapolis, IN to Los Angeles, CA , comprehending the change in weather conditions is essential. This comparison will highlight the differences in climate you should expect, ensuring you’re adequately prepared for your new environment.

Indianapolis
Los Angeles
Days of Sunshine per Year
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Avg. Annual Humidity
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Avg. UV Index
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Natural Disasters
Tornados, Snowstorms
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Poor
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85/65
84/66
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35/20
68/48


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

42.4
15.0
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

22
0


Moving from Indianapolis to Los Angeles, you will experience far more sunny days and milder winters, with a significant difference in UV Index, suggesting a stronger sun exposure in L.A. The shift from snowstorms and tornados to earthquakes and wildfires as common natural threats might require new ways to prepare and stay safe. Additionally, L.A.’s higher annual UV Index and poor air quality due to smog might influence daily routines and health precautions. Transitioning to a place with minimal rainfall could also be a substantial change, as the drastically lower annual rainfall affects everything from landscape to water use restrictions.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Indianapolis to Los Angeles

When planning a move from one city to another, assessing how your finances will be impacted is crucial. Comparing the cost of living and key financial indicators between Indianapolis and Los Angeles will help you prepare for the changes.

Indianapolis
Los Angeles
Avg. Household Income
$58,479
$70,372
Cost of Living Index
87.2
136.4
State Income Tax
3.23
9.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.87
0.79
Avg. Sales Tax
7.00
9.50
Top 3 Industries
Manufacturing, Healthcare, Retail
Entertainment, Aerospace, Tourism
Affluence
Moderate
High
Poverty
Moderate
High
Homelessness
Low
High

Moving from Indianapolis to Los Angeles, you'll encounter stark contrasts, particularly in the cost of living and state income tax. While the average household income is somewhat similar, the cost of living index in Los Angeles is more than double that of Indianapolis. This significant difference is mirrored in the state income tax, where Los Angeles residents pay nearly triple. Additionally, the prominent industries in Los Angeles - entertainment, aerospace, and tourism - offer a different employment landscape compared to Indianapolis's manufacturing, healthcare, and retail sectors. Understanding these financial aspects is crucial for a smooth transition.

Indianapolis vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison

Welcome to this quick comparison aimed at giving you an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Indianapolis & Los Angeles . This information is designed to help smooth your transition by understanding the communities you're moving from and to.

Indianapolis
Los Angeles
Political Make-up
Lean Conservative
Lean Liberal
Local Politics
Mix of Democratic and Republican leadership
Primarily Democratic leadership
Religion
Christian Majority
Diverse, with Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist communities

While Indianapolis has a relatively conservative political climate with a mixture of Democratic and Republican leadership, Los Angeles leans more liberal, mostly governed by Democrats. This is important for you to understand as it affects local policies, culture, and community projects. Indianapolis's religious landscape is predominantly Christian, offering many churches and religious institutions. In contrast, Los Angeles hosts a mosaic of faith communities, including sizable Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist populations, in addition to its Christian majority. This diversity reflects in the city's culture, festivities, and culinary scenes, providing a broad spectrum of cultural experiences for new residents.

Indianapolis vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Indianapolis, IN to Los Angeles, CA requires adapting to new routines, especially when it comes to your daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Los Angeles helps you better understand what to expect in each city.

Indianapolis
Los Angeles
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
30
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
8 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
3 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
No
Yes, with difficulty

While your average commute time will slightly increase when moving from Indianapolis to Los Angeles, prepare for a significant adjustment in dealing with traffic. Los Angeles is known for its heavy congestion, reflecting a sizable difference compared to Indianapolis. However, Los Angeles offers better public transit options, making owning a car less crucial for navigating the city. Despite this, many find that Los Angeles still presents challenges for those attempting to rely solely on public transportation, highlighting a crucial aspect of city life you'll need to adapt to.

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