Best Indianapolis to Portland Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Indianapolis to Portland Movers

Moving from the racing capital of the world, Indianapolis, to Portland, the City of Roses, marks an exciting chapter in your life, brimming with new adventures and opportunities. Transitioning from Indy's bustling motor speedways and family-friendly neighborhoods to Portland's verdant landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and coffee culture offers a vivid change of scenery and lifestyle. In navigating this significant long-distance move, the importance of entrusting your journey to trusted and reliable professional movers cannot be overstated; our algorithm at Great Guys Moving ensures you're paired with the best, making your transition as smooth as possible.

Indiana iconArrow iconOregon icon

Best Indianapolis to Portland Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Northwest Grace Moving9.29A+Authorized For HHGContact
All Service Moving9.27A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Bulldogs Moving Co.9.12NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Soft Touch Moving8.82A+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 Portland to Indianapolis guide.

5 Best Indianapolis to Portland Moving Companies

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

Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional9.29/10
based on 605+ data points

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 Metro...Read More >>

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
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 9,065+ data points

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 using a ...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

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
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 12/18/2024)

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
Superb8.82/10
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 12/18/2024)

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. Portland Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting. To ease the transition, we've curated a guide to compare Indianapolis, IN & Portland, OR local neighborhoods. Whether you're searching for a home in a vibrant community, tranquil scenery, or a rich cultural hub, understanding the similarities between neighborhoods in your current and future city can help you find your perfect new locale.

IndianapolisPortlandHow They're Similar
Broad RippleAlberta Arts DistrictArtsy and vibrant community
Meridian-KesslerIrvingtonHistoric homes and tree-lined streets
Fountain SquareMississippi AvenueEclectic arts scene and dining
CarmelLake OswegoAffluent, with a mix of urban and natural settings
FishersBeavertonFamily-friendly with great schools
ZionsvilleHillsboroSuburban feel with local charm
Butler-TarkingtonLaurelhurstBeautiful parks and historic homes
Mass AvePearl DistrictChic and bustling with shops
IrvingtonSellwood-MorelandQuaint and walkable with antiques
Wholesale DistrictOld Town ChinatownRich in history and entertainment

In exploring these neighborhood pairings, you'll discover unique charms and similarities that resonate with your current lifestyle and preferences. The artsy and vibrant Alberta Arts District, much like Broad Ripple, is known for its dynamic art scene, bustling streets, and diverse dining options. For those accustomed to strolling through the historic streets of Meridian-Kessler, the picturesque Irvington in Portland offers a seamless transition with its grand homes and lush canopy. Meanwhile, if the eclectic and engaging atmosphere of Fountain Square captures your heart, Mississippi Avenue awaits with a lively arts scene and innovative cuisine that echoes the spirited lifestyle of its Indianapolis counterpart. Each of these neighborhoods in Portland not only mirrors the vibe of Indianapolis’s beloved communities but also brings its unique blend of culture, nature, and urban living, ensuring you feel right at home in your new city.

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Things to Do in Portland

  • Hike in Forest Park
  • Stroll through Portland Japanese Garden
  • Enjoy food carts at various locations
  • Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
  • Explore Powell's City of Books
  • Sample brews on a craft brewery tour
  • Watch a movie at Cinema 21

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Indianapolis to Portland

Moving from one city to another can be a stressful yet exciting time, filled with both ups and downs. This guide aims to show an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Indianapolis, IN to Portland, OR. Carefully considering these factors can help you make a well-informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Lesser cultural diversity
  • Humid summers
  • Comparatively limited dining scene
  • Fewer natural parks
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Greater cultural diversity
  • Milder summers
  • Vibrant dining scene
  • Rich nature and parks
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less affordable housing
  • More traffic congestion
  • Concerns about safety
Indianapolis, IN iconIndianapolis, IN
  • Lower cost of living
  • More affordable housing
  • Less traffic congestion
  • Commendable public safety

Moving to Portland from Indianapolis introduces you to a city buzzing with cultural diversity and a magnetic dining scene. In Portland, restaurants like Pok Pok and Le Pigeon offer you a taste from around the globe, right in the heart of the city. Furthermore, Portland's natural beauty, exemplified by spots like Forest Park and the International Rose Test Garden, provides ample outdoor activities, fostering a strong bond with nature. While Indianapolis has its charm with a lower cost of living and commendable public safety, Portland's vibrant lifestyle, marked by its cafes, breweries, and art galleries in areas like the Pearl District, makes it an attractive place to call home despite a higher cost of living and concerns about safety in some areas.

Indianapolis vs. Portland Food Guide

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Indianapolis & Portland, highlighting the diverse food scenes in both cities. Knowing about the local cuisine is vital for understanding what living in a new area will be like. These insights will help you get acquainted with the culinary delights awaiting you.

IndianapolisPortland
Most iconic local food itemPork Tenderloin SandwichDonuts
Most popular meat dishBeef BrisketPulled Pork
Most popular street food itemFood Truck TacosVietnamese Banh Mi
Most popular vegan foodSeitan WingsVegan Ramen
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • St. Elmo Steak House
  • Milktooth
  • Bluebeard
  • Pok Pok
  • Screen Door
  • Le Pigeon
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When comparing the local cuisine scenes of these vibrant cities, you'll find both familiar and unique offerings. Indianapolis is famed for its Pork Tenderloin Sandwich, best enjoyed at places like Mug 'n Bun Drive-In, reflecting the city's love for hearty Midwest fare. Meanwhile, Portland prides itself on a more eclectic food scene characterized by its obsession with Donuts, available in innovative flavors at Voodoo Doughnut, among others. Portland's Alberta and Hawthorne districts are notable for their food truck gatherings, offering an expansive array of international and vegan options, showcasing the city's high rating in vegan friendliness and its diverse culinary landscape. Whether you're craving a traditional meat dish or exploring vegan options, both cities cater to a range of tastes and preferences.

Indianapolis vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison

Food plays a pivotal role in turning a place into a home, making the quest for new favorite eateries crucial when relocating. This restaurant comparison will facilitate the transition from Indianapolis, IN, to Portland, OR, by mapping out culinary counterparts. Let this guide steer your dining adventures in your new city.

IndianapolisPortlandWhat You'll Love
St. Elmo Steak HouseRingside SteakhouseBoth offer high-end, classic steakhouse experiences with a focus on quality meats and traditional sides.
BluebeardLe PigeonCreative, farm-to-table dining in a relaxed setting, emphasizing local ingredients and innovative dishes.
MilktoothTasty n DaughtersBoth are brunch hotspots, known for their inventive menus and cozy, welcoming atmospheres.
PatachouMother’s Bistro & BarSimilar in their commitment to fresh, comforting breakfast dishes and a homely dining experience.
The EagleScreen DoorSouthern cuisine heavyweights, both notable for their fried chicken and home-style sides.
Fountain Square Brewing Co.Deschutes Brewery Portland Public HouseBoth are local breweries with an atmosphere geared toward craft beer enthusiasts and a menu of hearty, pub-style offerings.
Bazbeaux PizzaApizza SchollsCelebrated for their hand-tossed, artisanal pizzas and a dedication to quality ingredients, appealing to true pizza aficionados.
ZaharakosSalt & StrawWhile Zaharakos is more of an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, Salt & Straw offers a modern twist with their innovative and unique flavor pairings.
Shapiro’s DelicatessenKenny & Zuke’s DelicatessenBoth are iconic delis in their respective cities, serving up hefty sandwiches, bagels, and traditional Jewish fare.
BeholderCanardUpscale yet casual dining spots where the chefs play with flavors and textures, creating unique and memorable dishes.

In the culinary transition from Indianapolis to Portland, aficionados of hearty, traditional meals will rejoice in knowing places like The Eagle and Screen Door in Portland continue to champion the soul-satisfying southern cuisine akin to what they loved back home. For those who seek the thrill of inventive, sophisticated dining, the move from enjoying meals at Bluebeard to indulging at Le Pigeon will be seamless, encapsulating the essence of farm-to-table dining with a flair for creativity. Ultimately, this guide not only serves as a compass to navigate Portland’s vibrant food scene but also reassures that the soul of your dining experience can indeed follow you, ready to be rediscovered in every bite.

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Ready to start your move?

Indianapolis vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts

When contemplating a move, delving into the real estate landscape of your potential new city is crucial. Indianapolis, IN, and Portland, OR, present unique housing dynamics. Understanding these will help you make an informed decision. This comparison aims to outline the critical aspects of housing in both cities, highlighting differences in costs, architecture, and lifestyle.

ComparisonIndianapolisPortland
Typical Architecture StyleColonial, RanchCraftsman, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious yards, family-orientedEco-friendly features, close to nature

Moving from Indianapolis to Portland, you'll notice significant shifts in housing costs and lifestyle. For instance, the median home price in Portland is more than double that of Indianapolis, reflective of Portland's booming real estate market and desirability. Portland's architecture famously incorporates Craftsman and Modern styles, focusing on sustainability and eco-friendly living. This aligns with the city's high scores in walkability and bikeability, encouraging a less car-dependent lifestyle. Urban living in Portland is vibrant, with easy accessibility to nature, which is a stark contrast to the more suburban, family-oriented lifestyle prevalent in Indianapolis. Whether you're drawn to the spacious yards of Indianapolis or the eco-conscious ethos of Portland, each city offers a distinct living experience tailored to different priorities.

Indianapolis vs. Portland Weather Considerations

When contemplating a move from Indianapolis, IN to Portland, OR, understanding the weather comparison is crucial. This comparison will illuminate how Indianapolis's weather varies from Portland's climate , helping you adapt more smoothly to your new locale.

Summer icon
85°F / 65°F

Indianapolis, IN

80°F / 57°F

Portland, OR

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 20°F

Indianapolis, IN

47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
42.4"

Indianapolis, IN

36.03"

Portland, OR

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
22"

Indianapolis, IN

4"

Portland, OR

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonIndianapolisPortland
Air QualityModerateGood
Natural DisastersTornadoes, StormsEarthquakes, Floods
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While Indianapolis enjoys a slightly warmer summer and more sunny days, Portland prevails with milder winters and better air quality, making it a haven for those who prefer moderate temperatures without the extremes. The higher number of sunny days in Indianapolis might be attractive, but Portland's environment is gentler in terms of winter harshness and air cleanliness. Both cities share similar average humidity and UV index levels. Notably, Portland's lower annual snowfall suggests fewer winter disruptions compared to Indianapolis. Understanding these differences will help you better prepare for your relocation.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Indianapolis, IN to Portland, OR, it's crucial to know how the cost of living and other financial aspects will affect you. This comparison aims to shed light on the differences in money and finance between Indianapolis and Portland, helping you plan your move effectively.

ComparisonIndianapolisPortland
Avg. Household Income$58,479$79,057
Cost of Living Index87.2111.3
State Income Tax3.239.9
Avg. Property Tax0.871.07
Avg. Sales Tax70
Top 3 IndustriesHealthcare, Manufacturing, RetailTechnology, Manufacturing, Apparel
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessConcerningSignificant

While Indianapolis presents a more affordable living situation with a lower cost of living index and less burdensome state income tax, Portland boasts a higher average household income. However, it's important to note that Portland's cost of living is significantly higher, primarily due to housing costs. The absence of sales tax in Oregon can offset some expenses, though. Furthermore, the industry landscape differs notably between the two, with Portland being a hub for technology and apparel. Considering these factors is crucial for financial planning and job searching as part of your move.

Indianapolis vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Indianapolis, IN to Portland, OR, it's valuable to understand the communities you'll be joining. This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup between Indianapolis & Portland , offering insight into the cultural atmosphere of your new home.

IndianapolisPortland
Political Make-upMixed, leaning conservativeProgressive, with a strong liberal leaning
Local PoliticsDiverse political landscapeActive in environmental and social issues
ReligionMix of Protestant and Catholic, with growing non-religious segmentHigh percentage of non-religious residents, diverse religious communities present


Moving from Indianapolis to Portland means transitioning from a city with a more conservative tilt to one known for its progressive values, especially concerning environmental advocacy and social issues. Portland's political atmosphere is significantly influenced by active community engagement in policies aiming for sustainability and inclusivity. While religion plays a role in many Indianapolis residents' lives, with a strong presence of Protestant and Catholic communities, you'll find Portland to host a larger non-religious demographic alongside a mosaic of different faiths. This shift reflects not only in the religious landscape but also in the broader cultural expressions and community priorities.

Indianapolis vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Indianapolis & Portland aims to offer insights into what your daily commute and handling of traffic might look like after moving. Understanding these differences will help you plan your transportation needs effectively in your new city.

ComparisonIndianapolisPortland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2527
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingYes

In Indianapolis, the average commute time is slightly shorter, and traffic congestion is less compared to Portland. However, Indianapolis falls behind in terms of public transportation options. In Portland, you’ll enjoy a more robust public transit system, thanks to services like TriMet that include buses, light rail, and streetcar services. This makes it easier for residents to get by without a car, highlighting Portland’s emphasis on public transportation and biking infrastructure. Whether you're planning to drive or use public transportation, understanding these differences ensures a smoother transition to your new home city.

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