Best Indiana to California Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Indiana to California and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,309 mile IN to CA move go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 340 Indiana to California 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 Indiana compared to California. 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.
Best Indiana to California Moving Companies
| Rank | Company | Score  | Affordability Index | License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.67 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 2 | Pure Moving | 9.64 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG |
| 3 | MVM Moving & Storage | 9.24 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG |
| 4 | Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.14 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG |
| 5 | College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Merrillville | 8.91 | 8.8 | Authorized For HHG |
| 6 | Mi-Box NWI | 8.85 | 8.99 | Authorized For Property |
(800) 787-5428How Much Does it Cost to Move from Indiana to California?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,309 miles from Indiana to California will cost on average $3,745 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom IN to CA 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 Indiana and dropoff in California 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 Indiana to California movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
| Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,512 | 300 ft³ | $8.37 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,745 | 450 ft³ | $8.32 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,204 | 750 ft³ | $8.27 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,044 | 1100 ft³ | $8.22 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,075 | 1600 ft³ | $8.17 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,619 | 1800 ft³ | $8.12 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from California to Indiana guide.
Popular Indiana to California Moving Destinations
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See All Routes >Trusted moving guides helping you move from Indiana to California
Trusted. Licensed. Insured. Hire the best out of state movers. Moving to another state just got easier.Most Popular Indiana to California Moving Routes
Compare the 6 Best IN to CA Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Pure Moving
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3207734 / 1115049 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (2022) |
MVM Moving & Storage
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3098388 / 76046 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 75,000 (2021) |
Bulldogs Moving Co.
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3784131 / 1472268 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2021) |
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Merrillville
Kouts, IN, 46347
About College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving Merrillville
College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving, established in 2005, is a full-service moving and junk removal company with over 200 locations...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Hourly Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4110434 / 1569877 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2022) |
Mi-Box NWI
10904 Jenny Lane
Schererville, IN, 46375
About Mi-Box NWI
MI-BOX is a nationwide company specializing in cost-effective, convenient solutions to help you move and store your belongings in Hammond, IN...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
- Cross-Country Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2644131 / 921937 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2020) |
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.
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 Indiana to California
When contemplating a move from Indiana to California, it's important to look at both the upsides and downsides. These charts help provide an honest reflection of the pros of relocating to California and the cons of leaving Indiana.
Indiana- Harsh winters
- Limited job market
- Flat landscapes
- Fewer cultural events
- Limited outdoor activities
California- Mild climate
- Diverse career opportunities
- Scenic views
- Cultural diversity
- Endless outdoor options
California- Higher living expenses
- Urban sprawl
- Heavy congestion
- High competition
- Complex transit
Indiana- Lower cost of living
- Close-knit communities
- Less traffic
- Less competition
- Easy to navigate
As you consider the move, you'll notice that California offers incredible opportunities for outdoor activities. From enjoying the scenic views at Griffith Park in Los Angeles to experiencing the cultural events at the Getty Center, the state is rich with experiences. However, the appeal comes with a price, literally, as you'll navigate through heavy traffic on the 405 and face higher living expenses, especially in areas like San Francisco and Santa Monica. Embrace the diverse career opportunities but be prepared for competition in industries ranging from technology to entertainment.
Indiana vs. California Food Guide
Food is a significant aspect of local culture and provides insight into the lifestyle of an area. With this in mind, we will explore how the culinary scenes differ to help you adjust to your new surroundings. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Indiana & California , highlighting distinct flavors and dining experiences unique to each state.
- St. Elmo Steak House
- Bluebeard
- The Lombardi Room
- Chez Panisse
- In-N-Out Burger
- The French Laundry
When relocating from Indiana to California, you’ll notice a significant shift not only in the climate and lifestyle but also in the food scene. California's culinary scene is well-known for its health-conscious and vegan-friendly options, epitomized by the iconic avocado toast and a wide range of fresh, plant-based cuisines that saturate cities from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Moreover, the abundance and diversity of food trucks offer a taste of the world within a city block, especially in bustling neighborhoods like LA’s Arts District or San Francisco’s Mission District. On the other hand, Indiana delights with comfort food champions like the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and a more modest but growing appreciation for farm-to-table dining, highlighted in joints like Bluebeard in Indianapolis. Transitioning to California, you'll find an abundant and diverse culinary scene that caters to a broad spectrum of tastes and dietary preferences.
Ready to start your move?
Indiana vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the real estate landscape is crucial when planning a move. It's important to compare how Indiana and California stack up in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle to make an informed decision.
When comparing housing in Indiana and California, it's obvious that California's higher cost of living reflects in its real estate prices. While California offers modern and Spanish-style homes often equipped with eco-friendly features and stunning ocean views, Indiana homes lean towards the Craftsman and Colonial styles, emphasizing family-friendly environments with large yards. The significant difference in median home prices and monthly rents is due to California's bustling urban lifestyle, higher walkability, and bikeability scores, catering to those seeking a vibrant city life. Nonetheless, Indiana provides a more affordable option for those valuing spacious living and a slower pace.
Indiana vs. California Weather Considerations
When planning to move from Indiana to California, understanding the weather differences between these state locations is crucial. It can greatly influence your day-to-day life and how you prepare for each season.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
While both Indiana and California enjoy warm summers, you'll find a drastic difference in winter temperatures, making California winters much milder. Additionally, California boasts nearly 100 more days of sunshine per year, allowing for more outdoor activities year-round. However, this comes with a trade-off of higher annual UV index exposure and varying air quality, particularly in urban or wildfire-prone areas. Considering these factors can help you better prepare and adapt to your new environment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Indiana to California
Moving from one state to another can bring significant changes to your financial situation. It's essential to understand how the cost of living and average income in Indiana will compare to what you're used to when moving to California. This comparison aims to shed light on financial considerations crucial for your move.
When transitioning from Indiana to California, the most notable difference you're likely to encounter is the cost of living. California's cost of living index is almost double that of Indiana’s, indicating that your daily expenses could significantly increase. However, it's essential to note that the average household income in California also tends to be higher, although this increase may not fully compensate for the higher expenses. Additionally, the state income tax in California varies greatly and can be considerably higher than Indiana's flat rate of 3.23%, especially for those in higher income brackets. Nevertheless, the diverse and booming industries in California, such as technology, agriculture, and entertainment, offer unique employment opportunities not as prevalent in Indiana.
Indiana vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
This brief overview aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in the states you're moving from and to. By comparing the politics between Indiana & California , and the religious landscape, you'll gain insights into the cultural shifts you might experience.
Indiana and California present contrasting landscapes in terms of political beliefs and religious practices. While Indiana's political makeup leans more Republican with a considerable focus on traditional values and local businesses, California stands on the progressive end of the spectrum, favoring Democrat policies with strong advocacies in technology, environmental sustainability, and social justice. The religious environment also shifts from Indiana's predominantly Protestant Christian community to California's diverse religious landscape, including a significant portion of residents identifying as non-religious. This diversity in California could offer you a more eclectic community experience compared to Indiana's more homogenous religious population. Understanding these differences will help you prepare for the cultural adjustment in your move.
Education Guide When Moving from Indiana to California
Moving from Indiana to California involves navigating many changes, including the educational landscape. To help you better understand what the comparisons are between school options in Indiana and California , this chart lays out the top educational institutions and districts in both states. By comparing these, you can make informed decisions for your family's educational needs.
| Indiana | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) Indiana University Bloomington Purdue University Ball State UniversityUniversity of California Los Angeles University of California Berkeley Stanford University | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Smoky Row Elementary School Carmel; Signature School Evansville; Union Elementary School ZionsvillePoint Vicente Elementary School Rancho Palos Verdes; Pacific Elementary School Manhattan Beach; Millikin Basics+ Elementary School Santa Clara | |
Top 3 Middle Schools West Lafayette Jr./Sr. High School West Lafayette; Brown County Junior High School Nashville; Riverside Junior High School FishersHenry M. Gunn High School Palo Alto; Whitney High School Cerritos; Miller Creek Middle School San Rafael | |
Top 3 High Schools Signature School Evansville; Carmel High School Carmel; West Lafayette Jr./Sr. High School West LafayetteCalifornia Academy of Mathematics & Science Carson; Henry M. Gunn High School Palo Alto; Troy High School Fullerton | |
Top 3 private high schools Culver Academies Culver; Park Tudor School Indianapolis; Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School IndianapolisHarvard-Westlake School Los Angeles; The Harker School San Jose; Phillips Academy Andover | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Traders Point Christian Academy Whitestown; Bethany Christian School Goshen; Lutheran High School of Indianapolis IndianapolisHead-Royce School Oakland; Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences Santa Monica; The Thacher School Ojai | |
Top 3 School Districts Carmel Clay Schools Brown County School District Zionsville Community SchoolsPalo Alto Unified School District Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District San Marino Unified School District | |
California offers some of the most prestigious universities and high-strength K-12 programs in the nation, reflecting its larger population and compelling cultural diversity. Institutions like Stanford University and UCLA are known globally for their excellence. Similarly, the private school sector, including Harvard-Westlake School and The Harker School, continues to set academic benchmarks nationally. Conversely, Indiana's educational scene, exemplified by schools such as Signature School and Culver Academies, showcases an impressive commitment to high-quality education with a focus on community engagement and character-building. Both states clearly prioritize educational excellence, albeit through their unique regional characteristics and resources.
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