Best Indianapolis to Salem Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Indianapolis to Salem and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,415 mile move from Indiana to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Indianapolis to Salem 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 Northwest Grace Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Indianapolis compared to Salem. 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 Salem Moving Companies

Company
Score Question
Affordability IndexLicense
1Northwest Grace Moving9.319.28Authorized For HHG
2All Service Moving9.278.91Authorized 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 Salem?

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,415 miles from Indianapolis, IN to Salem, OR will cost on average $3,835 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Indianapolis to Salem move is roughly $9,264. 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$2,572300 ft³$8.57
1 Bedroom$3,835450 ft³$8.52
2 Bedrooms$6,354750 ft³$8.47
3 Bedrooms$9,2641100 ft³$8.42
4 Bedrooms$13,3951600 ft³$8.37
5+ Bedrooms$14,9801800 ft³$8.32
*Please note: These Indiana to Oregon moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from Indiana & Oregon. 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 OR mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salem to Indianapolis guide.

Compare the 5 Best Indianapolis to Salem Movers

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

Northwest Grace Moving Logo

Northwest Grace Moving

Exceptional9.31/10
based on 558+ data points

19764 Cypresswood St

Oregon City, OR, 97045

About Northwest Grace Moving

Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Senior Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
All Service Moving Logo

All Service Moving

Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 7,584+ data points

66 SE Morrison St

Portland, OR, 97214

About All Service Moving

Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
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. Salem Neighborhood Comparison

When moving from one city to another, it can be comforting to find familiar neighborhoods in your new locale. This guide serves to assist those relocating from Indianapolis, IN to Salem, OR by comparing the top neighborhoods in each city. By understanding the similarities between areas, newcomers can make informed decisions on where they might feel most at home.

IndianapolisSalemHow They're Similar
Broad RippleWest SalemVibrant local arts scene
Fletcher PlaceEnglewoodGrowing foodie culture
Meridian-KesslerFairmountHistoric homes and family-friendly
Butler-TarkingtonGrantQuiet, community-oriented, good schools
IrvingtonCroisan-IllaheEclectic mix and rich history
Lockerbie SquareBush ParkOld world charm with a canopy of trees
Mass AveDowntown SalemHub of culture and nightlife
Fall Creek PlaceSunnyslopeUp-and-coming, community involvement
Wholesale DistrictMorningsideBustling commercial area with leisure spots
Cottage HomeHighlandQuaint, with artsy vibe

For those who enjoy the vital culture and dining of Broad Ripple, West Salem offers a similarly vibrant local arts scene, including a mix of galleries, theaters, and eateries. Fletcher Place food enthusiasts will find Englewood's growing foodie culture both familiar and exciting, with a variety of new restaurants and cafes blossoming. History buffs living in Meridian-Kessler can explore Fairmount's historic neighborhoods, boasting beautiful homes and a strong sense of community. Similarly, Butler-Tarkington’s family-friendly and community-oriented atmosphere can be found in Salem's Grant neighborhood, known for its parks, high-quality schools, and active neighborhood association. Lastly, Mass Ave's culture and nightlife are mirrored in Downtown Salem, where locals enjoy a plethora of shopping, dining, and entertainment options set amidst historical buildings and modern designs.

Things To Do background image

Things to Do in Salem

  • Stroll through the colorful Bush's Pasture Park
  • Discover gothic horrors at Witch's Castle
  • Visit the Willamette National Forest
  • Book a ticket to an event at El Sinai Center
  • Explore craft brews at Gilgamesh Brewing
  • Enjoy a show at Elsinore Theatre
  • Join a Salem Saturday Market

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Salem

Moving from Indianapolis, IN to Salem, OR can be a life-changing decision. It's crucial to consider both the benefits and drawbacks of such a relocation. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Indianapolis to Salem, offering a balanced view to help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Harsher winters
  • Less greenery
  • Lower walkability
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Milder climate
  • Rich natural landscapes
  • High walkability
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Less sports-centric
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Higher cost of living
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Vibrant sports culture
  • Cultural districts
  • More affordable housing

For those considering the move from Indianapolis to Salem, it's important to delve deeper into what each city offers. Indianapolis boasts a thriving sports culture with venues like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and a bustling downtown area rich in cultural districts like Broad Ripple Village, which is known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and shops. In contrast, Salem charms with its natural beauty, offering expansive green spaces like Bush's Pasture Park and the Salem Willamette River Trail for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite a potentially higher cost of living, Salem's commitment to sustainability, walkable neighborhoods, and the quality of life may outweigh the financial difference. Both cities provide unique advantages, but your preference for urban vibrancy or natural serenity could tip the scales.

Indianapolis vs. Salem Food Guide

Food deeply enriches our understanding of a place's culture and daily life. In acknowledging this, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Salem to better inform those planning a move on what culinary delights await them in their new city.

Indianapolis
Salem
Most iconic local food item
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich
Marionberry Pie
Most popular meat dish
Beef Brisket
Pacific Northwest Salmon
Most popular street food item
Food Trucks Galore
Tacos
Most popular vegan food
Seitan Wings
Vegan Burrito Bowl
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Bluebeard
  • Milktooth
  • Word of Mouth Grill
  • Bentley's Grill
  • Busick Court Restaurant
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks
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🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱
🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Indianapolis boasts a hearty culinary tradition with its famous Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and bustling food truck scene, Salem introduces a blend of local and health-conscious offerings like the beloved Marionberry Pie and sustainable Pacific Northwest Salmon. Salem's reputation for being vegan-friendly might come from its variety of choices, including the popular Vegan Burrito Bowl found across the city. If you're moving from Indianapolis to Salem, you'll find yourself transitioning from the meat-heavy, down-home cooking celebrated at places like St. Elmo Steak House to the farm-fresh, ocean-to-table offerings showcased at spots like Bentley's Grill. This move will not only change your scenery but will broaden your culinary horizons as well.

Indianapolis vs. Salem Restaurant Comparison

Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering your go-to spots for a great meal. This handy comparison will be your guide in transitioning from the culinary landscapes of Indianapolis, IN to Salem, OR, helping you find your new favorite restaurant. Whether you’re craving upscale dining or a cozy, casual spot, we’ve got you covered.

IndianapolisSalemWhat You'll Love
St. Elmo Steak HouseRudy's SteakhouseClassic steakhouse with a similar upscale vibe
BluebeardWord of Mouth BistroKnown for creative dishes and a foodie's delight
Shapiro’s DelicatessenGeppetto's Italian Restaurant & BarCozy space offering hearty, comforting dishes
The EagleBo & Vine Burger BarSimilar casual atmosphere with standout American fare
MilktoothBusy Bee CaféBoth offer innovative brunch options and a laid-back vibe
Mesh on MassRafns' RestaurantBoth are known for upscale dining with local, organic produce
PatachouWord of Mouth Neighborhood BistroAnother spot for food enthusiasts seeking quality and comfort
Mama Carolla's Old Italian RestaurantGamberetti'sAuthentic Italian cuisine in a cozy, romantic setting
The Tamale PlaceLa Margarita ExpressSpecializes in handmade tamales and authentic Mexican cuisine
YatsAibertos Mexican FoodA no-frills spot known for hearty, flavor-packed dishes

While Indianapolis and Salem may be miles apart, their culinary scenes offer similar comforts and delights. For example, St. Elmo Steak House, a cornerstone of fine dining in Indianapolis, finds its match in Salem's Rudy's Steakhouse where the tradition of serving prime cuts in an elegant setting continues. Meanwhile, fans of the creative and comforting brunch at Milktooth will find solace in Busy Bee Café in Salem, where innovative dishes serve up morning joy. It's these kinds of establishments that make both cities unique yet familiar for newcomers. Whether you're in the mood for the warm, inviting ambiance of Mama Carolla's Old Italian Restaurant or looking to explore the authentic Mexican flavors reminiscent of Yats at Aibertos Mexican Food, Salem welcomes you with open arms and plates full of delicious, comforting food.

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Ready to start your move?

Indianapolis vs. Salem Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your old and new cities is crucial. This guide highlights the differences in housing between Indianapolis, IN, and Salem, OR, providing insight into cost, architecture, walkability, and more, to aid in your transition.

Indianapolis
Salem
Typical Architecture Style
Prairie and Craftsman
Victorian and Craftsman
Walkability
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing
Large Yards, Family-friendly
Parks nearby, Proximity to Downtown

Moving from Indianapolis to Salem, you're transitioning from a city where spacious yards and family-oriented amenities dominate the listings to a locale where the proximity to parks and downtown areas take precedence. While both cities feature Craftsman-style homes, Salem adds the charm of Victorian architecture to the mix. The higher walkability and bikeability scores in Salem reflect a slightly more urban lifestyle compared to Indianapolis. These scores indicate the ease with which residents can enjoy the city's amenities without relying heavily on a car, promising a change in daily routines and accessibility for newcomers.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salem, OR

1. West Salem : You will love the abundance of parks and green spaces, perfect for walking your furry friends.

2. Englewood : Known for its sidewalks and pet-friendly cafes, you and your pet will find it welcoming and accessible.

3. South Gateway : This area boasts numerous pet-friendly trails and outdoor spots for you and your pet to explore.

Indianapolis vs. Salem Weather Considerations

When planning a move from Indianapolis, IN to Salem, OR, it's crucial to understand how the weather in your new home compares to what you're used to. This comparison will provide insights into Indianapolis and Salem's climate, air quality, and seasonal challenges, helping you prepare for your relocation.

Indianapolis
Salem
Days of Sunshine per Year
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. Annual Humidity
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Avg. UV Index
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Natural Disasters
Tornadoes, Floods
Earthquakes, Wildfires
Air Quality
Moderate
Good
Summer icon

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

85/65
82/52
Winter icon

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

35/20
47/33


Rainfall icon

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

42
39
Snowfall icon

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

22
3


While Indianapolis experiences a more pronounced range of temperatures from summer to winter, Salem offers milder winters and slightly cooler summers. You'll notice fewer sunny days in Salem which contributes to its higher humidity levels throughout the year. Interestingly, despite Salem having more cloud coverage, the UV index in both cities is fairly similar. Transitioning between these two environments means adapting to less snowfall but potentially more rainfall in Salem. Additionally, the shift in dominant natural disaster risks from tornadoes in Indianapolis to earthquakes and wildfires in Salem is notable. Understanding these factors will be key in making your relocation as smooth as possible.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning your move from Indianapolis, IN to Salem, OR, understanding how your financial situation will compare is crucial. This guide provides a comparison of key money and finance metrics to help you adjust to your new home.

Indianapolis
Salem
Avg. Household Income
$58,479
$63,927
Cost of Living Index
87.2
110.55
State Income Tax
3.23
9.9
Avg. Property Tax
0.87
1.04
Avg. Sales Tax
7
0 (Oregon has no sales tax)
Top 3 Industries
Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail
Government, Agriculture, Manufacturing
Affluence
moderate
moderate to high
Poverty
concerning
moderate
Homelessness
high
increasing

Comparing the financial landscape between Indianapolis and Salem reveals notable differences. While the average household income is fairly similar, the cost of living index in Salem is significantly higher, largely influenced by Oregon's higher state income tax and property taxes. However, Oregon's lack of sales tax can offset some of that increase for residents. The top industries in Salem lean towards government and agriculture, which may influence job opportunities compared to Indianapolis's healthcare-led economy. Despite these challenges, Salem's affluence level is slightly higher, offering potential for a comfortable lifestyle. Understanding these financial nuances will help you better prepare for your move.

Indianapolis vs. Salem Political & Religious Comparison

In planning your move from Indianapolis, IN to Salem, OR, it's essential to grasp a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison will give you an idea of the political and religious landscape between Indianapolis & Salem , helping you understand the community you're about to join.

Indianapolis
Salem
Political Make-up
Moderately Liberal
Liberal
Local Politics
Diverse representation
Progressive-leaning
Religion
Diverse religious communities
Predominantly Christian, with progressive religious communities

While both Indianapolis and Salem have a leaning towards liberal politics, Salem is noted for its more pronounced progressive stance. This is evident not just in statewide elections but also in the local governance and community initiatives that prioritize environmental concerns and social justice. The religious landscape in both cities offers a broad spectrum, but Salem displays a distinctive blend of traditional Christian beliefs harmoniously coexisting with progressive religious communities. Integrating into Salem's community, you'll find a welcoming environment that values diversity and inclusivity, reflecting in both its political attitudes and religious congregations.

Indianapolis vs. Salem Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Indianapolis, IN to Salem, OR? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Salem will give you a clearer picture of what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like in these cities.

Indianapolis
Salem
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)
25
23
Traffic Congestion
6 out of 10
4 out of 10
Availability of Public Transit
5 out of 10
6 out of 10
Can you get by without car?
Challenging
Feasible

In Indianapolis, the average commute time sits at around 25 minutes, indicating fairly manageable city navigation. However, when compared to Salem’s slightly shorter commute of 23 minutes, you might find yourself with a bit more free time in the mornings. Traffic congestion in Indianapolis is more pronounced, a reflection of its larger population and busier urban life. Public transportation in Salem scores slightly higher which suggests a slightly more dependable transit system, making living without a car more feasible in Salem than in Indianapolis. This difference could be significant for daily commuters looking for alternatives to driving.

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