Best Indianapolis to Durham Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Indianapolis to Durham Movers

Moving from the racing heart of Indianapolis, IN, to the academic and research hub of Durham, NC, marks an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading the "Crossroads of America" for the rich history and vibrant culture of the "Bull City," each offering unique flavors, neighborhoods, and communities to explore. Recognizing the challenges of such a long-distance move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers. With our unbiased ranking algorithm, we ensure you're matched with the best movers to transition smoothly into your new adventure.

Indiana iconArrow iconNorth Carolina icon

Best Indianapolis to Durham Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Raleigh Moving Company9.43NRActiveContact
Athens Moving Experts9.34A+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 Durham to Indianapolis guide.

5 Best Indianapolis to Durham Moving Companies

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

Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional9.43/10
based on 954+ data points

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

Services

  • Free estimates
  • Full Value Protection (FVP)
  • Fully licensed and insured

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3344628 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
1
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.34/10
based on 4,516+ data points

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

Services

  • Local Moving Services
  • Long Distance Moving Services
  • Commercial Moving Services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3205320 / 204920

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (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 β€” 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. Durham Neighborhood Comparison

Relocating can feel like a leap into the unknown, but familiarizing yourself with your future city can make the transition smoother. To help bridge the gap, this guide offers a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Indianapolis, IN & Durham, NC , providing a relatable baseline for those making the move. By exploring neighborhoods with similar vibes, amenities, and community feels, we aim to make your new city feel like home in no time.

IndianapolisDurhamHow They're Similar
Broad RippleTrinity ParkVibrant, artistic community
Meridian-KesslerHope ValleyHistoric homes, leafy streets
Fountain SquareBrightleafEclectic shops, hip eateries
Fall Creek PlaceOld North DurhamDiverse, revitalized area
Butler-TarkingtonWatts-HillandaleFriendly, community-focused
IrvingtonForest HillsHistoric charm, peaceful ambiance
Mass AveWarehouse DistrictTrendy, urban living
Lockerbie SquareCleveland-HollowayHistoric, close-knit community
Wholesale DistrictDowntown DurhamLively, business hub
ZionsvilleTreyburnUpscale, golf-community living

Exploring the similarities between neighborhoods in Indianapolis and Durham can offer you a sense of continuity and belonging in your new city. Broad Ripple and Trinity Park share a vibrant, artistic spirit, each boasting lively streets lined with unique shops and cafes. For instance, the Trinity Park neighborhood is reminiscent of Broad Ripple's eclectic vibe, hosting community events that bring residents together. Meanwhile, the historic charm of Meridian-Kessler finds its counterpart in Hope Valley, where mature trees shade well-kept homes from the early 20th century. Both neighborhoods offer serene environments and are praised for their historic architecture and friendly communities. Lastly, Fountain Square and Brightleaf both attract those with a penchant for the bohemian, with local art scenes, live music, and a smorgasbord of dining options that keep the area buzzing.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Durham

Moving from one city to another can be an exciting yet daunting task. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Indianapolis, IN to Durham, NC . Through comparative charts, we will highlight key differences to help you weigh your decision carefully.

CONs
PROs
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Higher crime rate
  • Lesser cultural scene
  • Fewer tech jobs
  • Colder winters
  • Less green spaces
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower crime rate
  • Vibrant cultural scene
  • Booming tech sector
  • Milder winters
  • More parks, trails
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less auto-reliant
  • Tighter housing market
  • Denser urban form
  • Busier city life
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Lower cost of living
  • Auto-oriented
  • More affordable housing
  • Spacious city layout
  • Quiet suburban areas

While moving from Indianapolis to Durham, one of the first things you'll notice is the cultural shift. Durham, part of the Research Triangle, boasts a lively cultural scene with renowned institutions like the Durham Performing Arts Center and the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University offering frequent events and exhibitions. In contrast, Indianapolis, though a home to institutions like the Indianapolis Museum of Art, presents a different cultural atmosphere. Tech professionals will find Durham's burgeoning tech sector, highlighted by the Research Triangle Park, a significant upgrade in terms of career opportunities. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Durham's myriad of green spaces, such as the Eno River State Park, providing a vast network of trails and recreational activities. Both cities offer unique advantages, but for those seeking a vibrant cultural life, a growing tech landscape, and an abundance of natural beauty, Durham presents a compelling case.

Indianapolis vs. Durham Food Guide

Food deeply reflects the culture and lifestyle of a location, playing a crucial role in the living experience. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Durham , aiming to enrich your understanding of the culinary scene you're moving into. Whether you crave hearty meals or seek out vibrant, diverse food options, this guide will help you navigate your new culinary landscape.

IndianapolisDurham
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichCarolina-style BBQ
Most popular meat dishSugar Cream PieFried Chicken
Most popular street food itemFood Trucks VarietiesFood Trucks Varieties
Most popular vegan foodVegan Sloppy JoesVegan BBQ
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Bluebeard
  • The Eagle
  • Pizzeria Toro
  • Bar Virgile
  • Mateo Bar de Tapas
Fitness/Health ConscientiousnessπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺπŸ’ͺ
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

Transitioning from Indianapolis to Durham presents an exciting exploration within the realms of traditional American and Southern cuisine. Durham, renowned for its Carolina-style BBQ, offers a unique twist on this beloved dish that can be found in neighborhood favorites such as The Pit. Additionally, Durham's food scene prides itself on an abundance of food trucks and vegan options, reflecting its community's high health consciousness and culinary diversity. The city is also home to iconic restaurants like Pizzeria Toro and Mateo Bar de Tapas, where food lovers can dive deep into unique flavors that define the local cuisine.

Indianapolis vs. Durham Restaurant Comparison

Finding a new favorite eatery is key to making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison chart will ease the transition from Indianapolis, IN to Durham, NC, guiding you to similar dining experiences in your new locale.

IndianapolisDurhamWhat You'll Love
St. Elmo Steak HouseNanaSteakHigh-end steaks and sophisticated atmosphere
BluebeardMateo Bar de TapasCreative, locally sourced dishes in a trendy setting
MilktoothFoster's MarketCasual, inventive brunch and coffee spot
The EaglePompieri PizzaLaid-back ambiance, known for fried chicken and comfort food
BeholderBar VirgileIntimate, with a focus on innovative cocktails and small plates
Cafe PatachouGuglhupf Bakery, Cafe & BiergartenCozy cafe with a European twist on breakfast and lunch
Goose The MarketEastcut Sandwich BarArtisan sandwiches with a focus on local ingredients
Ironworks KeystoneCounting HouseElegant dining experience with locally sourced cuisine
Tinker StreetMothers & Sons TrattoriaWarm and inviting with a focus on Italian fare
Workingman's FriendBull City Burger and BreweryBurgers and beers in a friendly, laid-back setting

When you make the move from Indianapolis to Durham, you don't have to leave your dining habits behind. For example, if you loved the steaks at St. Elmo Steak House, NanaSteak in Durham offers a similarly upscale experience with a local touch. Fans of the creative brunch scene at Milktooth will find solace in Foster's Market, where the emphasis on fresh, inventive dishes continues. And for those who appreciate the combination of ambiance and fine dining, Beholder's counterpart in Durham is Bar Virgile, where the intimate settings match perfectly with its innovative menu, echoing the unique culinary exploration found back in Indianapolis.

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Indianapolis vs. Durham Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a crucial aspect of relocating, making it essential to understand how Indianapolis, IN, and Durham, NC stack up against each other. This comparison will illuminate differences in housing costs, architectural norms, and lifestyle offerings to better inform your decision.

ComparisonIndianapolisDurham
Typical Architecture StyleRanch, CraftsmanColonial, Modern
Walkability πŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘ŸπŸ‘Ÿ
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle πŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈπŸ›οΈ
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, proximity to highwaysClose to universities, green spaces

While Indianapolis offers more affordable housing options with its median home price and rent lower than Durham, the latter city scores higher in walkability, bikeability, and urban lifestyle. This indicates a denser, more connected community in Durham, often associated with its proximity to top-tier universities and vibrant green spaces. Moreover, architectural styles differ significantly between these cities, reflecting their unique cultural and historical influences. These details can help guide your decision on where to move, based on your lifestyle preferences and budget.

Indianapolis vs. Durham Weather Considerations

When planning a move, understanding how the weather in Indianapolis, IN compares to Durham, NC , is crucial for a smooth transition. From average temperatures and sunshine to the likelihood of natural disasters, this comparison will help you adjust your expectations and prepare for your new home’s climate.

Summer icon
85/65

Indianapolis, IN

89/68

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (Β°F)

Winter icon
35/20

Indianapolis, IN

50/30

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (Β°F)

Rainfall icon
42

Indianapolis, IN

47

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22

Indianapolis, IN

6

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIndianapolisDurham
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersSnowstorms, TornadoesHurricanes, Tornadoes
Days of Sunshine per Yearβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈβ˜€οΈ
Avg. UV IndexπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈπŸ•ΆοΈ
Avg. Annual HumidityπŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦πŸ’¦

Moving from Indianapolis to Durham, you'll enjoy warmer winters and more days of sunshine each year, making outdoor activities more accessible year-round in Durham. While both cities face their unique natural disaster risks, with Indianapolis experiencing snowstorms and frequent tornadoes and Durham facing the risk of hurricanes and tornadoes, being prepared for different types of weather-related events will be part of your new normal. Interestingly, despite the south's reputation for high humidity, Durham's average annual humidity is slightly lower than Indianapolis, which might come as a pleasant surprise. Adjusting your wardrobe and home for these weather differences will ensure you're comfortable in your new city.

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


When considering a move from Indianapolis, IN to Durham, NC, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the differences in cost of living, average household income, and employment opportunities between Indianapolis and Durham, enabling you to make an informed decision about your relocation.

ComparisonIndianapolisDurham
Avg. Household Income$58,479$71,343
Cost of Living Index87.296.6
State Income Tax3.235.25
Avg. Property Tax0.870.84
Avg. Sales Tax7.007.50
Top 3 IndustriesManufacturing, Health Care, RetailEducation, Health Care, Information Technology
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyNoticeableLower
HomelessnessConcerningLesser


The financial landscape of Indianapolis versus Durham exhibits both similarities and differences that can impact your living experience. Durham, with a higher average household income and a slightly elevated cost of living index, reflects its burgeoning tech and education sectors. This dynamic hints at a thriving economy but also underscores the cost associated, primarily due to higher state income and sales taxes. Despite these costs, Durham's efforts in reducing poverty and homelessness are noteworthy, suggesting a community investing in its future. On the other hand, Indianapolis's affordability, characterized by a lower cost of living and state income tax, offers a different kind of economic advantage, albeit with its challenges in homelessness and poverty. Understanding these nuances can help you better prepare for your move, ensuring a smoother transition.

Indianapolis vs. Durham Political & Religious Comparison

Moving from one city to another involves not just a change in scenery but also immersing yourself in a new community. In this guide, we provide a comparison of the politics between Indianapolis & Durham, alongside a look into the religious landscape, offering a quick glance at the typical makeup of the population you'll find in each city.

IndianapolisDurham
Political Make-upLargely DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsMixed, with progressive leanings in urban areasProgressive, with strong emphasis on social justice and equality
ReligionDiverse, Christian majority with significant Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu communitiesPrimarily Protestant with growing diversity in faith traditions

When moving from Indianapolis to Durham, you'll find both cities share a Democratic majority, however, Durham presents a more progressive stance, particularly in matters of social justice and equality. This difference in local politics might reflect in city policies and the community's overall priorities. In terms of religion, Indianapolis offers a broad tapestry of faiths, with a significant presence of Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu communities alongside its Christian majority. Durham, while primarily Protestant, is experiencing a rise in religious diversity, further enriching its cultural fabric. Translating these insights to your daily life, you may notice differences in community events, local discussions, and social issues that are at the forefront of each city's communal consciousness.

Indianapolis vs. Durham Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Indianapolis, IN to Durham, NC requires understanding the key differences to better prepare for what your daily commute and traffic experience will be like, especially comparing the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Durham. This guide aims to help you navigate these changes smoothly.

ComparisonIndianapolisDurham
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2522
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡πŸš‡
Can you get by without car?Possibly, with difficultiesYes, more feasible

While the average commute time is shorter in Durham than in Indianapolis, it's the availability of public transit and the feasibility of living without a car that might make a significant difference in your daily life. Durham has invested in improving its public transportation system, making it slightly easier for residents to navigate the city without a car. In contrast, Indianapolis does offer public transit options like buses and a growing bike-share program, yet living there without a personal vehicle could present more challenges, given its sprawling layout and less dense public transit network.

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