Best Indianapolis to Oakland Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Indianapolis to Oakland Movers

Moving from the heart of the Midwest to California's Bay Area is an exhilarating leap, marking a significant transition in your life. You're trading in the crossroads of America, Indianapolis, with its renowned speedway and warm Hoosier hospitality, for Oakland's vibrant arts scene, revolutionary spirit, and the majestic Redwoods standing guard over the city. To ensure this long journey transitions smoothly, relying on trusted and reliable professional movers is crucial; we at Great Guys Moving provide you with the best options using an unbiased ranking algorithm, making your move as seamless as the California breeze.

Indiana iconArrow iconCalifornia icon

Best Indianapolis to Oakland Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
OCD Moving Services LLC9.66A+Authorized For HHGContact
Kora Moving9.39A+Authorized For HHGContact
Bulldogs Moving Co.9.12NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Soft Touch Moving8.86A+Authorized For HHGContact
You Move Me Indianapolis8.75NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Oakland to Indianapolis guide.

5 Best Indianapolis to Oakland Moving Companies

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

OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional9.66/10
based on 3,273+ data points

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...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Commercial Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2597230 / 911812

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers6
Total Annual Miles Moved153,000 (2022)
View Full Review
1
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional9.39/10
based on 1,517+ data points

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moves
  • Long distance moves
  • Packing and unpacking

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3139436 / 1425667

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved100,000 (2021)
View Full Review
2
Bulldogs Moving Co. Logo
Exceptional9.12/10
based on 553+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

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
Superb8.86/10
based on 174+ data points

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

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
Superb8.75/10
based on 1,372+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/18/2024)

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. Oakland Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Indianapolis, IN & Oakland, CA. This guide aims to help you find a new neighborhood in Oakland that mirrors the vibe and amenities you loved back in Indianapolis. Whether you're looking for bustling city vibes, serene parks, or historic charm, this comparison will serve as your roadmap.

IndianapolisOaklandHow They're Similar
Broad RippleRockridgeVibrant shopping & dining
Meridian-KesslerPiedmont AvenueHistoric homes & walkability
Fountain SquareTemescalArtsy with eclectic shops
Mass AveUptown OaklandTrendy nightlife & arts scene
IrvingtonGrand LakeCharming, historic architecture
CarmelMontclairUpscale, family-friendly
Butler-TarkingtonRockridge againQuiet, leafy residential
ZionsvilleClaremontAffluent with large estates
Old NorthsidePiedmontElegant homes & manicured lawns
Fall Creek PlaceNorth OaklandDiverse community & revitalization

For those moving from Indianapolis to Oakland and seeking neighborhoods with a rich cultural scene and excellent dining options, you would appreciate the transition from Broad Ripple to Rockridge. Here, you can enjoy a day of shopping and dining at local favorites like College Avenue. If historic charm and walkability are what you cherish, transitioning from Meridian-Kessler to Piedmont Avenue would be ideal, where you can stroll past beautiful historic homes and enjoy the community atmosphere. Oakland’s Temescal neighborhood, comparable to Fountain Square, boasts an artsy vibe with eclectic shops and annual street fairs, offering a seamless blend of creativity and community spirit to its new residents.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Oakland

Moving from one city to another can bring about a significant change in one's life. This comparison aims to reflect honestly on the pros and cons of relocating from Indianapolis, IN to Oakland, CA , providing a balanced view of what to expect from such a move. Whether it’s the climate, cultural scene, or cost of living, understanding these aspects can help you make a more informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Colder winters
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Fewer job opportunities in tech
  • Lower restaurant variety
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Milder climate
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • More tech industry jobs
  • Rich food scene
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Expensive real estate
  • Bustling urban environment
  • Denser traffic
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Lower cost of living
  • More affordable housing
  • Quieter city life
  • Easy navigation

The move from Indianapolis to Oakland offers an exciting shift towards a more culturally rich and diverse atmosphere. In Oakland, you're never far from an innovative dining experience or a vibrant arts scene. For food enthusiasts, neighborhoods like Temescal are a haven, boasting renowned eateries like Pizzaiolo. If tech jobs are your focus, the Bay Area's Silicon Valley is just a stone's throw away, offering opportunities at companies like Google and Facebook. However, it's important to prepare for Oakland's higher cost of living, especially in popular areas like Rockridge and Piedmont Avenue, where housing and everyday expenses can stretch your budget more than in Indianapolis. Embrace the change, but plan accordingly to make the most of what Oakland has to offer.

Indianapolis vs. Oakland Food Guide

Food greatly enriches the experience of living in a new area, showcasing the heart and soul of its culture. In this guide, we'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Oakland , helping you get acquainted with the culinary landscapes you're moving into.

IndianapolisOakland
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichSourdough Bread
Most popular meat dishHoosier Ribeye SteakKorean BBQ Short Ribs
Most popular street food itemDeep Fried PicklesTacos
Most popular vegan foodSeitan WingsJackfruit Tacos
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Bluebeard
  • The Eagle
  • Chez Panisse
  • Shakewell
  • Brown Sugar Kitchen
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

While Indianapolis is renowned for its Pork Tenderloin Sandwich and deep-fried delights, Oakland offers a more eclectic food scene influenced by its diverse population. Neighborhoods like Temescal are known for their vibrant street food, with tacos that celebrate the city's rich Mexican heritage. Oakland's commitment to health and sustainability shines through in its vegan options like jackfruit tacos, found in innovative restaurants throughout the city. The food truck scene in Oakland is especially noteworthy, reflecting the city's dynamic and experimental culinary spirit.

Indianapolis vs. Oakland Restaurant Comparison

When finding a new home, culinary experiences play a pivotal role in making a place feel like your own. This restaurant comparison is designed to ease your transition from Indianapolis, IN to Oakland, CA by identifying comparable favorite eateries . Let this guide be your culinary compass in discovering flavors reminiscent of home but with Oakland's unique twist.

IndianapolisOaklandWhat You'll Love
St. Elmo Steak HouseOakland GrillClassic steakhouse vibe with a local flair
BluebeardCommisHigh-end dining experience with innovative dishes
MilktoothGrand Lake KitchenComfort food in a cozy setting
The EagleBrenda'sSouthern comfort food with a California twist
Cafe PatachouTimeless CoffeeArtisanal coffees and brunch favorites
BeholderShakewellMediterranean-inspired dishes in a stylish setting
MeshPlum BistroModern bistro fare with fresh, local ingredients
The Tamale PlaceCholita LindaAuthentic Latin American street food
Harry & Izzy’sDona TomasUpscale Mexican dining
BRU Burger BarTrueBurgerCraft burgers with a gourmet twist

Relocating to a new city is an adventure, especially when it comes to food. Oakland's culinary scene offers a wealth of dining experiences that mirror the beloved restaurants of Indianapolis. For instance, if you're craving the upscale dining atmosphere of Bluebeard, you'll find a similarly innovative and high-end culinary adventure at Commis. The transition from Milktooth's famous brunches to the comforting and homely vibes of Grand Lake Kitchen is almost seamless, promising a new go-to spot for your morning favorites. Moreover, BRU Burger Bar enthusiasts will discover a kinship in TrueBurger, where the art of crafting exceptional burgers is taken to a new level. These comparisons are a testament to the rich and diverse food scenes in both cities, ensuring you'll find a new favorite spot to call your own in Oakland.

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Ready to start your move?

Indianapolis vs. Oakland Real Estate & Living Facts

When considering a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of Indianapolis, IN, and Oakland, CA, is crucial. This comparison will help you understand the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle you can expect in these two diverse cities.

ComparisonIndianapolisOakland
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, CraftsmanVictorian, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious backyards, family-friendlyEco-friendly features, proximity to public transit

In transitioning from Indianapolis to Oakland, you'll not only find a significant uptick in housing costs but also a shift in the architectural landscape—from the more traditional Colonial and Craftsman styles to Victorian and Modern homes that define Oakland's neighborhoods. However, this move could significantly enhance your urban lifestyle, with Oakland offering a substantially higher walkability and bikeability score. This is particularly advantageous for those who prioritize an active, eco-conscious lifestyle, with many properties boasting eco-friendly features and close proximity to public transit. The stark contrasts in the most popular items mentioned in real estate listings reflect the differing priorities and lifestyles catered to by each city.

Indianapolis vs. Oakland Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another requires adjustments, and the weather is no exception. Understanding how the climate in Oakland contrasts with what you're accustomed to in Indianapolis will help you prepare for your new environment. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences and similarities in weather patterns between these two cities.

Summer icon
85°F / 65°F

Indianapolis, IN

74°F / 55°F

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 20°F

Indianapolis, IN

58°F / 44°F

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42.2"

Indianapolis, IN

23.5"

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22"

Indianapolis, IN

0"

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIndianapolisOakland
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersTornadoes, Severe ThunderstormsEarthquakes, Wildfires
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When relocating from Indianapolis to Oakland, you'll notice significant differences in weather. The milder summers and warmer winters of Oakland can offer a more comfortable living experience for those unaccustomed to extreme temperatures. Additionally, Oakland boasts a higher number of sunny days per year, which can be a major plus for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the potential for natural disasters shifts from tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in Indianapolis to earthquakes and wildfires in Oakland, requiring new residents to familiarize themselves with different safety precautions. Understanding these weather patterns and potential challenges can 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 Oakland

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living in Indianapolis vs. Oakland will impact your finances. This comparison aims to shed light on the economic differences between the two cities to help you prepare for the financial aspects of your relocation.

ComparisonIndianapolisOakland
Avg. Household Income$58,479$82,236
Cost of Living Index87.2139.1
State Income Tax3.23%9.3%
Avg. Property Tax0.87%0.73%
Avg. Sales Tax7%9.25%
Top 3 IndustriesFinance, Manufacturing, HealthcareTechnology, Healthcare, Retail
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLow
HomelessnessSignificantSevere

Moving from Indianapolis to Oakland involves preparing for a significant shift in both the cost of living and general economic landscape. Despite a higher average household income in Oakland, the city's cost of living index is nearly double that of Indianapolis. This means that your income will need to stretch further to afford housing, groceries, and other essentials in Oakland. Additionally, the state and local tax burdens in California are higher than those in Indiana, impacting your take-home pay. Corporately, while both cities boast robust healthcare industries, Oakland's economic engine is also significantly driven by technology and retail, reflecting its broader economic base and higher affluence level. These economic factors are essential to consider as you plan your relocation and financial future in a new city.

Indianapolis vs. Oakland Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Indianapolis, IN to Oakland, CA , it's important to get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents you'll be joining. This comparison aims to provide a clearer picture of the diverse beliefs and political affiliations in each city.

IndianapolisOakland
Political Make-upLean ConservativeHighly Liberal
Local PoliticsMixed, with Republican and Democratic leadershipStrongly Democratic leadership
ReligionChristianity prevalent, diverse religious presenceDiverse, with notable spiritual and secular communities

Moving from Indianapolis to Oakland, you will find yourself amidst a highly liberal and strongly Democratic-led community, a stark contrast to the mixed political environment of Indianapolis. While both cities enjoy a diversity in religious beliefs, Oakland's notable spiritual and secular communities offer a unique cultural tapestry that enhances its eclectic vibe. Embracing these differences can enrich your personal and social experiences, making your transition an exciting journey of discovery.

Indianapolis vs. Oakland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Oakland is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you consider moving from one city to the other.

ComparisonIndianapolisOakland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2529
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

In Indianapolis, while the average commute time might be shorter, the city's reliance on personal vehicles is higher due to lower public transit options. Compared to Oakland, where traffic congestion might be higher, the availability and efficiency of public transit such as BART and buses make it feasible to live comfortably without owning a car. This is a significant consideration for anyone weighing the costs and conveniences of daily travel in their new home city.

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