Factors that influence moving costs from New Orleans to Indianapolistoggle

The cost of New Orleans movers will depend on:

  • Move size: How much you're moving directly affects the cost. A one-bedroom move from New Orleans to Indianapolis might cost as little as $1,357, while a four-bedroom home could reach up to $8,007.
  • Time of year: Summer is considered peak moving season in New Orleans, which often leads to higher prices from moving companies.
  • DIY vs. full-service: Renting a truck or using a container can be more affordable, with truck rentals ranging from $704 to $1,618. Just keep in mind these options involve more hands-on work than hiring professionals.

What to know before moving from New Orleans to Indianapolis

Moving from New Orleans to Indianapolis means adjusting to a different pace of life โ€” and a different price tag. On average, it costs significantly more to live in New Orleans than in Indianapolis, making the move an opportunity for many to enjoy a lower cost of living.

Check out how New Orleans compares to Indianapolis so you know what to expect before you relocate:

New Orleans Indianapolis
Average rent cost $1,755 $1,399
Average home value $231,649 $220,467
Average income (per capita) $51,116 $59,110
Cost of living (single person) $3,134 $2,804
Cost of living (family of 4) $7,905 $6,667
Unemployment rate 11.0% 5.6%
Sales tax 10.0% 7.0%
State income tax 4.25% 3.15%
  • Rent prices in Indianapolis are 20% lower than in New Orleans, which means youโ€™ll have more money in your pocket each month.
  • In terms of homeownership, youโ€™ll be able to get more for your money in Indianapolis.
    Home prices in Indianapolis are 4.8% lower than in New Orleans.
  • Income in Indianapolis is 15.6% higher than in New Orleans, so you could earn more for doing the same job. The top employers in Indianapolis include Anthem, Eli Lilly and Company, and Steak 'n Shake.
  • The cost of living for a single person in Indianapolis is 10.5% lower than in New Orleans. This includes routine expenses like utilities, groceries, clothing, and transportation.
  • The cost of living for a family in Indianapolis is 15.7% lower than in New Orleans.
  • The unemployment rate in Indianapolis is 49.09% lower than in New Orleans.
  • Youโ€™ll spend less on retail and restaurants in Indianapolis, since the cityโ€™s sales taxes in Indianapolis are 30.00% lower than in New Orleans.
  • One perk of moving to Indianapolis is paying less in state income taxes, which are 25.88% lower than in New Orleans.

To put this in perspective, you would need around $2,684.11 in Indianapolis to maintain the same standard of life that you can have with $3,000.00 in New Orleans.

How life is different in New Orleans vs. Indianapolis

Indianapolis New Orleans
Population 887,642 383,997
AllTransit Transportation Performance Score 5 7
Walkability score 31 58
Bike friendliness score 43 66
Crime Index 60.71 67.31
Safety Index 39.29 32.69
Air Quality Good Good
  • Indianapolis's population is about 131% greater than New Orleans.
  • Indianapolis's public transportation has a score of 5 out of 10 versus New Orleans's higher score of 7.
  • Indianapolis is less walkable than New Orleans with a score of 31 out of 100 vs New Orleans's 58 out of 100.
  • Indianapolis has a bike-friendliness score 43 out of 100, which means it isn't as accessible to and safe for cyclists as New Orleans, which has a score of 66 out of 100.
  • Indianapolis's crime rate is lower than New Orleans with a score of 60.71 compared to New Orleans's 67.31. This means that Indianapolis neighborhoods are safer than 60.71% of all U.S. neighborhoods, and New Orleans neighborhoods are safer than 67.31%.
  • Indianapolis is considered to be safer than New Orleans with a safety index of 39.29 vs New Orleans's 32.69.
  • Air quality in Indianapolis is good, and in New Orleans it's good.

Other things to consider for your New Orleans vs. Indianapolis move

  • Weather: Indianapolis summers are hot, humid, and wet. Winters are generally cold with moderate snowfall. The rainiest months occur in the spring and summer, with slightly higher averages during May, June, and July. May is typically the wettest.
  • HOA rules: Be sure to review your community or HOA guidelines before moving day to avoid any surprises or delays.
  • Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, make sure to find out how to reserve it ahead of your move.
  • Truck parking permits: Many cities require special permits for parking large moving trucks. Check in advance to see if one is needed for your move.
  • State licensing: The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) regulate movers operating within Indiana and issue moving companies Indiana Households Goods Carriers Numbers. Check to make sure prospective movers have one and that itโ€™s up to date.Double-check that the moving company is properly licensed before you hire them.
  • State regulator: You can check the status of a Indiana moving license through the state's public utilities commission.
  • Moving permits: Indiana doesn\โ€™t require moving permits, but it\โ€™s still a good idea to check local parking rules before your move-in day.
  • Change of address: We suggest filing your USPS change of address form at least one week before your move. Youโ€™ll be able to set your official move date, helping ensure your mail is forwarded correctly to Indianapolis. Start the process here.
  • Moving company insurance: Each state has its own requirements for the level of insurance moving companies must carry.Opt for Released Value Protection โ€“ a budget-friendly choice with no extra cost from movers, though coverage is limited to 60 cents per pound. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, reimbursement is just $15. To ensure coverage for your items' full value, discuss alternative options with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance providers.
  • Moving checklist: Use our moving checklist to stay on top of every detail and reduce last-minute stress.

Where to live in Indianapolis

Ready to relocate to "Amateur Sports Capital of the World"? Here are some of the top neighborhoods to consider in Indianapolis.

Best neighborhoods for singles

  • Broad Ripple Village
  • Fountain Square
  • Mile Square
  • Meridian-Kessler
  • Old Northside

Best neighborhoods for families

  • Avon
  • Brownsburg
  • Carmel
  • Fishers
  • Westfield

Things to do in Indianapolis

Now that you've made the move to Indiana, itโ€™s the perfect time to explore Indianapolis. From local hotspots to hidden gems, thereโ€™s something to enjoy for every lifestyle:

  • Arts and culture: Youโ€™ll find museums and cultural hubs throughout Indianapolis, such as the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Indianapolis Museum of Art, The Eiteljorg Museum, and Indiana War Memorial.
  • Outdoor recreation: The cityโ€™s Eagle Creek Park, White River State Park, Broad Ripple Park, and Krannert Park โ€” along with other locations, ideal for trails, cycling, or enjoying the fresh air.
  • Sports: Experience the energy of a live game and back the home team at an Indianapolis Colts (NFL), Indianapolis Pacers (NBA), or Indianapolis Fever (WNBA) game.

FAQ

When is the best time to move from New Orleans to Indianapolis?

Spring and fall are the ideal times to move from New Orleans to Indianapolis. Youโ€™ll benefit from more comfortable weather and avoid the higher prices that come with peak moving season in New Orleans.

When is the cheapest time to move from New Orleans to Indianapolis?

Since spring and fall are the most popular times to move from New Orleans to Indianapolis, moving in the winter could help you save money. Check out our guide on moving discounts for more tips.

How long does a move from New Orleans to Indianapolis take?

The 819-mile journey from New Orleans, LA to Indianapolis, IN typically takes two to seven days. Some movers in New Orleans offer expedited services if you're on a tight schedule, and if you need extra time, be sure to ask about storage options in Indianapolis.

Helpful moving resources