Best Indianapolis to Modesto Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Indianapolis to Modesto and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,205 mile move from Indiana to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Indianapolis to Modesto 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 All-Star Movers & Storage), 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 Indianapolis compared to Modesto. 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 Modesto Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1All-Star Movers & Storage9.309.27Authorized For Property, HHG
2Bulldogs Moving Co.9.149.47Authorized For HHG
3Accurate Piano MOvers9.069.54Authorized 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 Modesto?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,205 miles from Indianapolis, IN to Modesto, CA will cost on average $3,656 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Indianapolis to Modesto move is roughly $8,828. 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$2,453300 ft³$8.18
1 Bedroom$3,656450 ft³$8.13
2 Bedrooms$6,056750 ft³$8.08
3 Bedrooms$8,8281100 ft³$8.03
4 Bedrooms$12,7601600 ft³$7.98
5+ Bedrooms$14,2651800 ft³$7.93
*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 Modesto to Indianapolis guide.

Compare the 5 Best Indianapolis to Modesto Movers

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

All-Star Movers & Storage Logo

All-Star Movers & Storage

Exceptional9.30/10
based on 1,026+ data points

2256 N MacArthur Dr

Tracy, CA, 95376

About All-Star Movers & Storage

Based in Manteca, locally-owned and operated All-Star Movers & Storage has over two decades of moving experience under its belt. Serving...

Services

  • Residential movers
  • Commercial movers
  • In-state moves and local moves

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2971368 / 10247

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved59,102 (2023)
View Full Review
1
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
2
Accurate Piano MOvers Logo

Accurate Piano MOvers

Exceptional9.06/10
based on 589+ data points

Estrella Ave

Stockton, CA, 95206

About Accurate Piano MOvers

Accurate Piano Movers has more than 20 years of experience with protecting pianos. Moving your piano by yourself is dangerous, stressful,...

Services

  • Local Piano Movers
  • Long Distance Piano Movers
  • Piano Storage

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2773343 / 1410785

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
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. Modesto Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when trying to navigate unfamiliar neighborhoods. This comparison between Indianapolis, IN & Modesto, CA aims to help you find your footing by identifying similar neighborhoods in each city based on popular areas and features.

IndianapolisModestoHow They're Similar
Broad RippleLa LomaArtsy vibe with vibrant nightlife
Fletcher PlaceSylvanTrendy with a mix of dining options
Mass AveDowntown ModestoBustling, cultural heart
IrvingtonCollege AreaHistoric homes with community feel
Lockerbie SquareJacob's AreaQuaint, walkable streets
Meridian-KesslerDel RioExpansive homes on tree-lined streets
Fountain SquareMidtownCultural and entertainment hub
CastletonSalidaRetail centers and commercial spaces
Bates-HendricksRouse-StocktonEmerging neighborhood with eclectic charm
Herron-MortonCentral ModestoBlend of old and new architecture

In Indianapolis, Broad Ripple is a lively area brimming with artistic flair and a dynamic nightlife, much like Modesto's La Loma district. You'll enjoy local favorites like The Vogue and Broad Ripple Park, while La Loma offers the charm of Graceada Park and unique wine bars. If historic homes captivate you, Irvington's rich heritage is mirrored by Modesto’s College Area, where you'll find leafy streets and a tight-knit community. Meanwhile, food enthusiasts will feel at home in Fletcher Place, with its diverse culinary scene, reminiscent of the trendy dining options available in Modesto’s Sylvan neighborhood. Each neighborhood in both cities provides its own blend of attractions and lifestyle, making the transition feel more like discovering a new facet of your existing tastes.

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Things to Do in Modesto

  • Watch a show at Gallo Center for the Arts
  • Stroll through Graceada Park
  • Explore McHenry Museum
  • Taste local wines
  • Shop at Modesto Certified Farmers Market
  • Hike in Dry Creek Trail
  • Enjoy Funworks! amusement park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Modesto

Moving homes is a monumental decision that intertwines excitement with the stress of change. This comparison seeks to illuminate the path from Indianapolis, IN to Modesto, CA by weighing the good and bad to provide a realistic expectation for your relocation. Indianapolis to Modesto transition showcases significant shifts in lifestyle, climate, and opportunities. Here's an honest reflection of the pros and cons to help you consider this move carefully.

CONs
PROs
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Colder winters
  • Lesser dining options
  • Fewer outdoor activities
Modesto, CA iconModesto, CA
  • Milder winters
  • Rich culinary scene
  • Diverse outdoor activities
Modesto, CA iconModesto, CA
  • Higher living costs
  • Less sports prominence
  • Fewer parks
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Lower living costs
  • Broad sports culture
  • More green spaces

When moving from Indianapolis to Modesto, you'll be leaving behind the chilly winters for Modesto's milder climate, enabling more year-round outdoor activities like visits to the nearby Yosemite National Park. Modesto offers a vibrant culinary scene with establishments like Dewz Restaurant known for its upscale American cuisine, and the rich wineries dotting the surrounding areas. Though Modesto may have fewer expansive parks compared to Indianapolis’s likes of Eagle Creek Park, the quality of life in terms of weather, food, and activities presents a compelling argument for the move, even with the trade-off of higher living costs and less emphasis on professional sports.

Indianapolis vs. Modesto Food Guide

Understanding the local food scene is essential when moving to a new city because this is a comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Modesto. Food greatly influences the cultural landscape and daily life in any area. This comparison will help you know what culinary delights await in your new home.

Indianapolis
Modesto
Most iconic local food item
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Almond Roca
Most popular meat dish
Beef Manhattans
Grilled Chicken Skewers
Most popular street food item
Deep Fried Pickles
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan Wings
Avocado Toast
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Bluebeard
  • Milktooth
  • Dewz
  • Condorosa Pizza
  • Bauer's 66 1/2
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
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Abundance of Food Trucks
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Foodie Scene
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🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Indianapolis, the meaty Pork Tenderloin Sandwich reigns supreme, often found at local institutions like St. Elmo Steak House. Conversely, Modesto's heart lies with its robust agricultural output, offering delights like Almond Roca that reflect the area's status as a nut production powerhouse. For those exploring vegan options, Indianapolis offers innovative dishes such as Seitan Wings. Meanwhile, in Modesto, the abundant agricultural produce elevates simple dishes like Avocado Toast to a new level. Food trucks throng the streets of Modesto, hinting at a vibrant and diverse food scene. Whether you're dining at Bluebeard in Indianapolis or grabbing a bite at Bauer's 66 1/2 in Modesto, you'll find each city's culinary offerings rich in flavor and history.

Indianapolis vs. Modesto Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, finding your new favorite dining spots can truly make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart between Indianapolis and Modesto aims to ease your transition by helping you discover equivalent culinary delights in your new city, using your favorites from your current hometown as a guide.

IndianapolisModestoWhat You'll Love
St. Elmo Steak HouseDEWZ RestaurantHigh-end dining with a notable wine list
BluebeardConcettaFarm-to-table dishes in a chic atmosphere
MilktoothCommonwealthCreative and modern takes on brunch classics
The EagleRedwood CaféComfort food with a cozy, casual vibe
LiveryRivets American GrillAmerican cuisine with a unique twist
PatachouHarvest MoonHealthy and innovative breakfast and lunch options
BeholderGalletto RistoranteElegant dining with an eclectic menu
Fountain Square BrewerySt. Stan's BreweryCraft beers with a community feel
VidaCamp 4 Wine CaféExceptional dining with a focus on wine pairing
Iozzo's Garden of ItalyRistorante di ModestoAuthentic Italian offerings in a charming setting

Exploring the culinary scene in a new city can be one of the most exciting aspects of moving. In Modesto, you'll find DEWZ Restaurant parallels the upscale dining experience of St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis, complete with a carefully curated wine list. For those who revel in the brunch culture of Milktooth, Commonwealth offers a fresh and inventive approach to morning dining in Modesto. Fans of the cozy and casual ambiance at The Eagle will appreciate the comfort food and welcoming feel of Redwood Café. Every restaurant on this list not only offers excellent food but a chance to create new memories in your new hometown of Modesto.

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Ready to start your move?

Indianapolis vs. Modesto Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly impacts your relocation experience. Understanding how housing in Indianapolis and Modesto compares can guide your decision-making process. This comparison delves into cost, architecture, and lifestyle differences to provide a comprehensive view.

Indianapolis
Modesto
Typical Architecture Style
Colonial, Ranch
Mediterranean, Ranch
Walkability
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👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Spacious backyards, downtown proximity
Agricultural opportunities, close to natural parks

When comparing Indianapolis and Modesto, it's clear that housing costs are generally higher in Modesto, reflecting California's overall higher cost of living. However, Modesto offers a somewhat higher urban lifestyle score, indicating better amenities and possibly more activities suited to urban living. The architecture in Modesto leans towards Mediterranean styles, which is quite distinct from the Colonial and Ranch styles that are more common in Indianapolis. This difference not only highlights a varied lifestyle but also points towards differing local cultures and climates influencing home design. For those passionate about cycling or walking, Modesto scores marginally higher in walkability and bikeability, suggesting slightly more convenience for those without cars.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Modesto, CA

1. La Loma : This charming neighborhood offers spacious sidewalks and parks, making it perfect for walking your pets.

2. College Area : With its array of dog-friendly cafes and proximity to Davis Community Park, you'll have plenty of places to enjoy with your furry friend.

3. Vintage Faire : Known for its generous green spaces and pet-friendly apartment complexes, you'll find this area welcoming and convenient for pet owners.

Indianapolis vs. Modesto Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new climate and weather pattern. Understanding how weather in Indianapolis compares to Modesto will help you prepare for the change ahead. In this guide, we’ll dissect the weather variations through comprehensive charts and detailed insights to ensure you know exactly what to expect.

Indianapolis
Modesto
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornados, Floods
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Moderate to Poor
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85°F/65°F
94°F/64°F
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35°F/20°F
55°F/38°F


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

42
13
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

22
0


When comparing the climates of Indianapolis and Modesto, there are several key differences to consider. Indianapolis experiences a significant range of temperatures throughout the year, from hot summers to cold winters, including snowfall, which is non-existent in Modesto. Modesto, however, boasts a greater number of sunny days per year, significantly less rainfall, and higher summer temperatures, which makes it essential to prepare for more consistent warm weather. Additionally, while both cities face challenges with air quality, natural disaster risks differ greatly, from tornados and floods in Indianapolis to earthquakes and wildfires in Modesto. Understanding these nuances will aid in a smoother transition to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When moving from Indianapolis, IN to Modesto, CA , understanding how your financial situation might change is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in cost of living, taxes, and income between these two cities, ensuring you're well-informed and prepared for your transition.

Indianapolis
Modesto
Avg. Household Income
$58,479
$70,469
Cost of Living Index
87.2
136.4
State Income Tax
3.23
1-13.3
Avg. Property Tax
0.87
0.76
Avg. Sales Tax
7
7.25
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tech
Agriculture, Manufacturing, Retail
Affluence
Moderate
Moderate
Poverty
High
High
Homelessness
Significant
Considerable

The transition from Indianapolis to Modesto involves navigating changes in cost of living, taxation, and potentially in your income. Modesto's higher cost of living index suggests your money might not stretch as far as in Indianapolis, largely due to differences in housing and transportation costs. However, this is balanced against California's progressive income tax system, where your tax rate will depend on your earnings level, potentially offering savings to some. The average property tax rate in Modesto is slightly lower, though this benefit may be offset by the overall higher cost of living. Understanding these financial intricacies is key to a smoother adaptation to your new city.

Indianapolis vs. Modesto Political & Religious Comparison

When planning a move from Indianapolis, IN, to Modesto, CA, understanding the community you're joining is crucial. This includes a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Our comparison aims to provide you with insights into the politics and religion between Indianapolis & Modesto , helping you get a feel for your new home.

Indianapolis
Modesto
Political Make-up
Leans Democratic
More mixed, but leans Republican
Local Politics
Democratic mayoral leadership
Historically Republican mayoral leadership
Religion
Christianity predominant, diverse religious communities
Christianity predominant, with significant Catholic and evangelical communities

Moving from Indianapolis to Modesto introduces you to a different local political and religious landscape. Indianapolis, with its Democratic leaning, contrasts Modesto's more mixed yet historically Republican-leaning governance. This might reflect on local policies and community projects that align with each city's dominant political views. Religious life in both cities is predominantly Christian, but Indianapolis boasts a more diverse range of religious communities. Understanding these dynamics can help you navigate the social and cultural environment of your new city, ensuring a smoother transition to Modesto.

Indianapolis vs. Modesto Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Indianapolis, IN to Modesto, CA brings changes in many aspects of life, including the daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Modesto will help you better understand what your daily travels might look like.

Indianapolis
Modesto
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
27
Traffic Congestion
4 out of 10
3 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Difficult
Challenging

In both Indianapolis and Modesto, you'll find that having a car is almost a necessity for a convenient lifestyle, though Modesto has a slightly higher score in terms of public transit availability. This means that while it may still be challenging to get by without a car in Modesto, your options for buses and other public transportation means might be somewhat better, thus slightly easing daily commutes. However, both cities enjoy relatively low traffic congestion compared to larger metropolitan areas, meaning that your daily drive might be less stressful in terms of delays and bumper-to-bumper traffic.

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