Best Indianapolis to Los Angeles Movers and Practical Moving Guide
Get a Quote Now!
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
Moving from the Crossroads of America to the City of Angels is an adventure that's as thrilling as it is life-changing. You're leaving behind Indy's famed auto races and cozy Midwest charm for LA's endless summers, star-studded streets, and sprawling urban canvas. Given the sheer distance and the fresh start that awaits, securing trusted and reliable professional movers is crucial for weaving through the complexities of such a long-haul move. At Great Guys Moving, we understand this journey, offering you the best movers to ensure your transition is as smooth as Los Angeles's palm-lined streets.
Best Indianapolis to Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best California Movers | 9.52 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Prodigy Moving & Storage | 9.41 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Bulldogs Moving Co. | 9.12 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Soft Touch Moving | 8.86 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| You Move Me Indianapolis | 8.75 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Indianapolis guide.
5 Best Indianapolis to Los Angeles Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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. Th...Read More >>
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
About Prodigy Moving & Storage
Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a locally-...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3983945 / 1492541
MC-430697 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 11 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2022) |
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 com...Read More >>
Services
- Full-service Moves
- Packing / Unpacking
- Loading / Unloading
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, pa...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
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 indust...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Senior Moving
- Premium Long Distance Moving
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.
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.
| Indianapolis | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Broad Ripple | Silver Lake | Vibrant nightlife, arts scene |
| Fountain Square | Echo Park | Eclectic, artistic community |
| Meridian-Kessler | Hancock Park | Historic homes, family-friendly |
| Carmel | Studio City | Upscale, suburban feel |
| Fishers | Sherman Oaks | Family-oriented, suburban |
| Zionsville | Calabasas | Affluent, peaceful community |
| Mass Ave | Abbot Kinney (Venice) | Trendy shopping, dining |
| Irvington | Los Feliz | Historic charm, vibrant community |
| Geist | Malibu | Lakeside (or oceanside) living, upscale |
| Nora | Encino | Family-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.
Ready to start your move?
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:
Indianapolis, IN- Cold winters
- Smaller job market
- Less nightlife
- Fewer cultural events
Los Angeles, CA- Sunny weather
- Diverse opportunities
- Vibrant nightlife
- Rich cultural scene
Los Angeles, CA- High cost of living
- Spread-out city
- Heavy traffic
- More pollution
Indianapolis, 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 |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
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.
| Indianapolis | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| St. Elmo Steak House | BOA Steakhouse | Both offer a classic steakhouse experience with a focus on prime cuts and elegant dining. |
| Bluebeard | Republique | Similar in offering inventive, farm-to-table fare in a stylish, renovated space that emphasizes local ingredients. |
| Milktooth | Sqirl | Both are beloved for their innovative breakfast and brunch menus that elevate morning dining with creative dishes. |
| The Eagle | Howlin' Ray's | While known for Nashville hot chicken, it delivers an atmosphere and dedication to quality similar to The Eagle’s fried chicken. |
| Beholder | Bestia | Both restaurants are known for their unique, boundary-pushing dishes in an industrial-chic setting. |
| Cafe Patachou | Joan's on Third | Cafes that boast a cozy vibe with a strong emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients and mouth-watering pastries. |
| Brugge Brasserie | Wurstküche | While specializing in sausages, they also bring a strong beer selection and a similar European vibe. |
| Ironworks Hotel Indy (Rize) | The Rose Venice | Both offer a relaxed dining experience with a focus on innovative and health-conscious meals. |
| Tinker Street | Gjelina | Both places create a cozy atmosphere where guests can enjoy well-crafted, seasonal dishes with a focus on local produce. |
| Zest! Exciting Food Creations | Botanica Restaurant & Market | Their 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.
Ready to start your move?
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.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Ranch | Modern, Spanish |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| 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 in Los Angeles, CA
1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.
2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.
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, IN
Los Angeles, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Los Angeles, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Indianapolis, IN
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Indianapolis, IN
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Tornados, Snowstorms | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
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.
| Comparison | 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.
| Comparison | Indianapolis | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| 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.
Popular Indianapolis, IN to California Moving Routes
- Indianapolis to San Diego
- Indianapolis to San Jose
- Indianapolis to San Francisco
- Indianapolis to Fresno
- Indianapolis to Sacramento
- Indianapolis to Long Beach
- Indianapolis to Oakland
- Indianapolis to Bakersfield
- Indianapolis to Anaheim
- Indianapolis to Santa Ana
- Indianapolis to Riverside
- Indianapolis to Stockton
- Indianapolis to Irvine
- Indianapolis to Chula Vista
- Indianapolis to Fremont
- Indianapolis to San Bernardino
- Indianapolis to Modesto
- Indianapolis to Fontana
- Indianapolis to Moreno Valley
