Best Portland to Indianapolis Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the eclectic streets of Portland, OR, to the vibrant heart of Indianapolis, IN, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new possibilities and adventures. Swapping the lush greenery and laid-back vibe of the City of Roses for the bustling crossroads of America's Racing Capital is a journey that promises a rich blend of culture, community, and change. To ensure this transition is smooth and stress-free, it's crucial to partner with trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we pride ourselves on connecting you with the best movers in the country, meticulously selected through our rigorous, unbiased ranking algorithm, because when it comes to your big move, only the best will do.
Best Portland to Indianapolis Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest Grace Moving | 9.30 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| All Service Moving | 9.27 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| You Move Me Portland | 9.27 | 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 |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Indianapolis to Portland guide.
5 Best Portland to Indianapolis Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
This listing has been claimed by All Service MovingAbout 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
About You Move Me Portland
You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this l...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
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
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.
Portland vs. Indianapolis Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be overwhelming, especially when you're heading to an unfamiliar city. To make your transition smoother, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR, & Indianapolis, IN. This guide aims to help you find a new neighborhood in Indianapolis that feels like home by comparing it to what you already know and love in Portland.
| Portland | Indianapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | Mass Ave | vibrant arts scene, trendy eateries |
| Alberta Arts District | Fountain Square | artsy, eclectic shops |
| Ladd's Addition | Meridian-Kessler | historic homes, leafy streets |
| Northwest District | Broad Ripple | bustling nightlife, diverse restaurants |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Irvington | family-friendly, historic charm |
| Mississippi Ave | Fletcher Place | hip, up-and-coming eateries |
| Laurelhurst | Old Northside | stately homes, serene ambiance |
| Hawthorne | Lockerbie Square | bohemian vibes, unique shops |
| Eastmoreland | Woodruff Place | picturesque, tree-lined boulevards |
| Nob Hill | Chatham Arch | historic architecture, vibrant community |
For example, if you're enchanted by the buzzing nightlife and diverse culinary scene of Portland's Northwest District, you'll find Broad Ripple in Indianapolis shares a similar vibe, boasting an array of bars, restaurants, and live music venues like The Vogue. Likewise, the historic charm and family-friendly atmosphere of Sellwood-Moreland can be found in Irvington, known for its community events, such as the Irvington Halloween Festival, and quaint spots like Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza. On the more serene side, Ladd's Addition's leafy streets and historic homes have a counterpart in Meridian-Kessler, renowned for its elegant architecture and the peaceful Holliday Park. These correlations between neighborhoods offer a sense of familiarity as you embark on your new adventure.
Things to Do in Indianapolis
- Stroll along the Indianapolis Cultural Trail
- Enjoy live music at HI-FI Indy
- Explore the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum
- Relax in White River State Park
- Savor a meal at Milktooth
- Catch a game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Indianapolis
Moving from Portland, OR to Indianapolis, IN requires adequate preparation and an honest comparison to navigate this life change smoothly. This comparison offers insight into the cons of leaving Portland and the pros of embracing Indianapolis, ensuring you make an informed decision that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
Portland, OR- Higher Cost of Living
- Wet Climate
- Less Job Opportunities
- Heavy Traffic
- Limited Cultural Diversity
Indianapolis, IN- Lower Cost of Living
- Milder Winters
- More Job Opportunities
- Less Traffic
- More Cultural Diversity
Indianapolis, IN- Fewer Natural Sceneries
- Different Cultural Vibe
- Fewer Coffee Shops
- Less Outdoor Diversity
- Not as Green
Portland, OR- Lush Landscapes
- Rich Culture
- Strong Coffee Scene
- Outdoor Activities
- Eco-Friendly
Moving from Portland's rain-soaked streets, you'll miss waking up to the sight of Mount Hood, yet you'll gain access to Indianapolis's vibrant city life and affordable living. While Portland is known for its lush parks and bustling farmers markets, Indianapolis boasts a rich cultural tapestry with landmarks such as the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The shift from Portland's eco-conscious communities to Indianapolis's burgeoning urban landscape presents new opportunities for personal and professional growth amidst a diverse and welcoming Midwestern backdrop.
Portland vs. Indianapolis Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Indianapolis is here to inform you about the dynamic food scenes of both cities. Understanding the culinary offerings is vital, as food is a significant aspect of local culture and living experience. This guide will help you transition smoothly to your new home by giving you a taste of what’s to come.
| Portland | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Doughnuts | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich |
| Most popular meat dish | Pok Pok's Vietnamese Chicken Wings | Sugar Cream Pie |
| Most popular street food item | Food Carts' Fusion Tacos | Elote |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan BBQ | Vegetarian Chili |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Portland is renowned for its eclectic food scene, primarily influenced by its high fitness/health conscientiousness and a thriving vegan community. Neighborhoods like the Pearl District and Alberta are teeming with innovative food carts and vegan eateries that push the envelope of culinary creativity. Meanwhile, Indianapolis takes pride in its heartland classics like the Pork Tenderloin Sandwich. The city's culinary identity also reflects a growing foodie scene, where traditional dishes meet contemporary flair, particularly in areas like Fountain Square and the Mass Ave Arts District. Both cities offer a rich tapestry of flavors that echo their unique cultural and social landscapes, making them exciting places to explore for any food lover moving from Portland to Indianapolis.
Portland vs. Indianapolis Restaurant Comparison
Food is at the heart of making a new city feel like home. This guide compares top restaurants in Portland to their counterparts in Indianapolis, helping you discover your next favorite dining spots. Whether you crave high-end cuisine or casual bites, this guide has you covered.
| Portland | Indianapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Bluebeard | Boutique dining with inventive dishes |
| Pok Pok | Chiang Mai Thai Noodle | Authentic Thai street food vibes |
| Tusk | Public Greens | Fresh farm-to-table offerings similar in ethos |
| Beast | Tinker Street | A cozy spot for creative and upscale meals |
| Pine State Biscuits | Milktooth | Known for innovative brunch dishes |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | Ma Ma's Korean Restaurant | Comfort food with a focus on heart and simplicity |
| Voodoo Doughnut | Long's Bakery | Quintessential doughnut experiences |
| Screen Door | The Eagle | Southern cuisine with a focus on fried chicken |
| Apizza Scholls | Bazbeaux Pizza | Artisanal pizzas with a creative twist |
| Salt & Straw | Lick Ice Cream | Unique and eclectic ice cream flavors |
For those who cherish memorable dining experiences, you'll appreciate the parallels and unique tastes offered by each city. Bluebeard in Indianapolis, much like Le Pigeon in Portland, dazzles with its boutique setting and inventive menus, ensuring that fans of upscale dining have a new locale to call home. Meanwhile, the transition from the iconic Voodoo Doughnut to Long's Bakery promises to keep doughnut aficionados delighted with a local favorite that rivals the creativity and cult status of its Portland counterpart. For those seeking comfort in the familiar yet eager to explore local flair, these comparisons assure that your transition will be filled with outstanding culinary discoveries.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Indianapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
When contemplating a move, the real estate market is a critical factor to consider. Understanding how Portland and Indianapolis stack up can help you make an informed decision on where to lay down your roots. This comparison aims to shed light on the housing aspects of both cities.
| Comparison | Portland | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Colonial, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Eco-friendly features | Big yards, Family-friendly areas |
Portland and Indianapolis offer contrasting yet appealing qualities depending on what you're seeking. Portland's love for the eco-friendly lifestyle is evidenced not just in its typical housing architecture but also in how homes are often listed with green features. The city scores high on walkability and bikeability, making it a haven for those who prefer to travel on foot or two wheels. Indianapolis, on the other hand, may boast lower costs for both buying and renting homes. The city's real estate often highlights spacious yards and its appeal to families, indicative of a more laid-back, suburban lifestyle. Though not as walkable or bikeable as Portland, Indianapolis offers its own charm with an urban lifestyle catering to those seeking a balance between city living and spacious suburban comfort.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Indianapolis, IN
1. Broad Ripple: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Broad Ripple boasts numerous pet-friendly restaurants and bars, along with the Broad Ripple Park which has a spacious area for dogs to play.
2. Fountain Square: This artsy neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of pet-friendly dining and shopping options, plus access to the Indianapolis Cultural Trail for leisurely walks with your furry friend.
3. Mass Ave: Mass Ave is a haven for pet lovers, featuring pet-friendly patios at many restaurants and unique pet stores like City Dogs Grocery, making it a perfect place for you and your pet to explore.
Portland vs. Indianapolis Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, comparing the weather conditions can help you prepare for the changes ahead. It's crucial to understand how Portland and Indianapolis weather conditions will differ, enabling you to adjust seamlessly to your new environment. This comparison will cover various weather aspects, providing a comprehensive overview of what to expect.
Portland, OR
Indianapolis, IN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Indianapolis, IN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Indianapolis, IN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Floods | Tornadoes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both cities experience a variety of seasons, you'll find distinct differences in weather patterns. Expect warmer summers and colder winters in Indianapolis compared to Portland, which enjoys milder temperatures year-round. Indianapolis also boasts more sunny days per year, which can be a major plus if you prefer clear skies. However, a significant difference to prepare for is the amount of snow Indianapolis receives, which averages 22 inches annually, compared to Portland's lighter snowfall. Both cities face their unique natural disaster risks, with Portland prone to earthquakes and Indianapolis to tornadoes, highlighting the importance of staying informed and prepared for such events.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Indianapolis
When planning your move from Portland, OR to Indianapolis, IN, it's crucial to compare the financial aspects to gauge how your cost of living and overall financial health might change. This comparison between Portland and Indianapolis will help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Portland | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $58,479 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 87.2 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 3.23 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.04 | 0.87 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 7 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Higher | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Higher |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving from Portland, OR to Indianapolis, IN, you'll notice a significant shift in your cost of living and taxation. Portland's higher average household income and cost of living index reflect its more expensive lifestyle, alongside a notable state income tax rate. In contrast, Indianapolis offers a markedly lower cost of living, complemented by a more favorable state income tax rate, making it potentially more affordable on a day-to-day basis. However, while the average sales tax in Indiana impacts consumers, the zero percent sales tax in Oregon is a benefit Portland residents leave behind. Each city's unique economic environment, including the top industries, influences these financial dynamics, shaping the local communities' affluence, poverty, and homelessness attributes differently.
Portland vs. Indianapolis Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison gives you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Portland & Indianapolis, helping you understand the cultural shift you might experience in your move.
| Portland | Indianapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | More conservative, but with liberal pockets |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Mixed, with a balance of Democratic and Republican influence |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | Higher religious affiliation, diverse religious communities |
When making your move from Portland to Indianapolis, you'll notice a shift from a predominantly liberal environment to one that may feel more balanced politically, with both conservative and liberal influences more evidently coexisting. This is reflected in local politics as well, where Indianapolis showcases a mix of Democratic and Republican governance. Religion plays a different role as well, with Indianapolis hosting a more diverse and pronounced religious landscape compared to Portland's less religious affiliation overall. These differences might offer new cultural experiences and community engagements for you in your new home.
Portland vs. Indianapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Portland, OR to Indianapolis, IN, means adjusting to new daily commutes and understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will help you grasp what to expect when transitioning between these cities.
| Comparison | Portland | Indianapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Challenging, but possible in certain areas |
In Portland, the public transportation system is robust, with services like the TriMet buses and MAX light rail making it reasonably easy to navigate the city without a car. In contrast, Indianapolis leans more on its IndyGo bus service, which covers the city but with less frequency and reach than Portland's services. Consequently, while it's easier to rely on public transit in Portland, managing without a personal vehicle in Indianapolis can be more challenging, especially if you live or work outside the central areas. Both cities offer unique commuting experiences, but Portland's investment in public transportation gives its residents more flexibility.
