Best Los Angeles to Portland Movers + Moving Guide

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If you're moving from Los Angeles to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,143 mile move from California to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Los Angeles to Portland moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Best California Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Los Angeles compared to Portland. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

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Best Los Angeles to Portland Moving Companies

RankCompany NameRating QuestionAffordability IndexLicenseContact
1Best California Movers9.529.73Authorized For HHGContact
2Moving Pro, Inc.9.459.01Authorized For Property, HHGContact
3Prodigy Moving & Storage9.419.24Authorized For HHGContact
4You Move Me Portland9.269.4Authorized For HHGContact
5SC Moving Services9.189.35ActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428

Cost to Move from Los Angeles to Portland

Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,143 miles from Los Angeles, CA to Portland, ME will cost on average $4,454 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Los Angeles to Portland move is roughly $10,778. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.

Home SizeMoving CostVolume of Packed Items (ft³)$/ft³
Studio$2,984300 ft³9.95
1 Bedroom$4,454450 ft³9.90
2 Bedrooms$7,386750 ft³9.85
3 Bedrooms$10,7781100 ft³9.80
4 Bedrooms$15,5961600 ft³9.75
5+ Bedrooms$17,4561800 ft³9.70
*Please note: These California to Maine moving prices are rough approximations based upon nationwide data as well as local and statewide data from California & Maine. The volume listed here represents the estimated cubic footage of your household items when packed and loaded into a moving truck. To determine the exact costs associated with your move, get a quote from a licensed CA to ME mover.
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Los Angeles guide.

Compare the 5 Best Los Angeles to Portland Movers

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

Best California Movers Logo

Best California Movers

Exceptional9.52/10
based on 3,003+ data points

Glendale, CA, 91206

About Best California Movers

Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3489907 / 1173381

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans12
Registered Drivers12
Total Annual Miles Moved157,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
Moving Pro, Inc. Logo

Moving Pro, Inc.

Exceptional9.45/10
based on 1,438+ data points

557 Vernon Ave

Venice, CA, 90291

About Moving Pro, Inc.

Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...

Services

  • Local Moving
  • Long Distance Moving
  • Car Transportation

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/10/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1864442 / 675888

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved26,800 (2023)
View Full Review
2
Prodigy Moving & Storage Logo

Prodigy Moving & Storage

Exceptional9.41/10
based on 12,245+ data points

601 S Figueroa St

Los Angeles, CA, 90017

About Prodigy Moving & Storage

Serving the greater Los Angeles area and California, Prodigy Moving & Storage has moved residences and offices since 2003. As a...

Services

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 1/9/2025)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3983945 / 1492541 MC-430697

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans11
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved1 (2022)
View Full Review
3
You Move Me Portland Logo

You Move Me Portland

Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,680+ data points

9442 SW Barbur Blvd

Portland, OR, 97219

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...

Services

  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services
  • Packing services

Interstate Moving License

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

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2388358 / 820850

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved45,000 (2020)
View Full Review
4
SC Moving Services Logo

SC Moving Services

Exceptional9.18/10
based on 644+ data points

25 Augusta St

South Portland, ME, 04106

About SC Moving Services

SC Moving Services is a family-owned and operated business located in South Portland, offering a wide range of services to Southern...

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2324405 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved10,000 (2016)
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.

Los Angeles vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison

If you're relocating from Los Angeles, CA to Portland, ME, getting acquainted with your new surroundings can be simplified by using familiar neighborhoods as your guide. This comparison of the local neighborhoods between Los Angeles, CA & Portland, ME will help you find your Portland haven based on your Los Angeles lifestyle.

Los AngelesPortlandHow They're Similar
VeniceEast BaysideArtistic, beach vibes
Silver LakeMunjoy HillTrendy, vibrant culture
HollywoodOld PortBustling nightlife, entertainment hub
Santa MonicaScarborough BeachCoastal, upscale amenities
Echo ParkDeering CenterEclectic, close-knit community
Downtown LADowntown PortlandUrban, business district
Beverly HillsWest EndElegant, historic residences
West HollywoodArts DistrictCreative scene, trend-setting
BrentwoodFalmouthSuburban, family-friendly
MalibuCape ElizabethScenic views, luxury living

If you enjoy the artistic, beach-town vibe of Venice, you'll likely feel at home in Portland's East Bayside, known for its thriving arts community and proximity to the coast. For those who love Silver Lake’s vibrant culture, Munjoy Hill offers an equally trendy atmosphere with a slew of boutique shops and cafes, perfect for weekend explorations. Meanwhile, Hollywood's entertainment buzz is echoed in Portland’s Old Port, where you can enjoy bustling nightlife with its diverse array of bars and music venues. Beverley Hills’ elegance is mirrored in Portland’s West End, where you’ll find distinguished historic homes and charming tree-lined streets. As a fan of coastal living in Malibu, Cape Elizabeth provides stunning ocean views that will make your transition seamless. Each of these Portland neighborhoods provides a fresh take on what you love about Los Angeles, with their own unique New England twist.

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Things to Do in Portland

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Los Angeles to Portland

Considering a move from Los Angeles, CA to Portland, ME involves weighing various factors. This guide offers an honest reflection of both the advantages and drawbacks of relocation to help you make an informed decision, particularly highlighting the pros and cons of life in each city.

CONs
PROs
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Smog and pollution
  • Heavy traffic
  • High cost of living
  • Water scarcity
Portland, ME iconPortland, ME
  • Cleaner air
  • Less congestion
  • More affordable living
  • Ample water resources
Portland, ME iconPortland, ME
  • Harsh winters
  • Less diversity
  • Limited nightlife
  • Fewer job options
Los Angeles, CA iconLos Angeles, CA
  • Sunny weather
  • Diverse culture
  • Extensive entertainment
  • Industry opportunities

In Portland, you'll relish the clean air and reduced traffic congestion, making it easier to explore picturesque spots like the Eastern Promenade and visit local favorites like the Central Provisions. While Los Angeles offers the year-round sunshine and cultural diversity alongside vibrant areas such as Santa Monica and Hollywood, it also comes with high costs and chronic water issues. Portland's vibrant neighborhoods, such as the Arts District and Old Port, offer charming local boutiques and historical eateries that might turn weekend errand runs into delightful expeditions. With notably lower living expenses, you might find that Portland spikes your quality of life despite the scarcity of job opportunities compared to the bustling tech and entertainment industries of LA.

Los Angeles vs. Portland Food Guide

Food is an integral part of local culture and can significantly affect your living experience. This comparison of the local cuisine between Los Angeles & Portland will help you better understand the culinary landscape of both cities, assisting you in your move from Los Angeles to Portland, ME.

Los AngelesPortland
Most iconic local food itemTacosLobster Roll
Most popular meat dishKorean BBQClam Chowder
Most popular street food itemHot DogsFried Clams
Most popular vegan foodVegan TacosVegan Lobster Roll
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10)💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10)🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene (out of 10)🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly (out of 10)🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving to Portland, ME, you will have the opportunity to explore iconic foods that are deeply rooted in the local culture. For instance, the beloved lobster roll can be found in the bustling Old Port district at restaurants like Portland Lobster Co. If you're a fan of seafood, the rich clam chowder served at Eventide Oyster Co. is a must-try. Though perhaps less populous than Los Angeles, Portland still boasts a vibrant food truck scene found around Thompson's Point, offering an array of local favorites. As you explore, you're sure to discover that the food scene is not only delicious but also inclusive, with venues prioritizing vegan-friendly options.

Los Angeles vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison

Whether it’s seeking the comfort of hometown culinary favorites or embarking on a new gastronomic adventure, food plays a crucial role in defining our sense of home. Comparing Los Angeles to Portland can help you find new favorite eateries that match the vibe and flavors you're used to in LA as you settle into your new surroundings in Portland, ME.

Los AngelesPortlandWhat You'll Love
ProvidenceFore StreetKnown for its wood-fired fare, similar to the innovative dishes at Providence
GuelaguetzaTaco EscobarrOffers an authentic Mexican dining experience with vibrant, traditional flavors
SugarfishIzakaya MinatoOffers fresh, meticulously prepared sushi reminiscent of Sugarfish's omakase style
In-N-Out BurgerDuckfat Frites ShackWhile not burger-focused, its iconic fries resonate with the comfort food appeal of In-N-Out
BestiaEventide Oyster CompanyFocuses on quality ingredients and an innovative menu that echoes Bestia's flair
The IvyBoone’s Fish House & Oyster RoomOffers a classic yet chic dining ambiance similar to The Ivy
Roscoe's House of Chicken and WafflesBecky's DinerDelivers a soulful, hearty menu that complements Roscoe's beloved comfort dishes
PizzanaBellevilleOffers artisanal pizza with a focus on quality and authenticity, akin to Pizzana
AnimalCentral ProvisionsCaptures the experimental, meat-focused creativity seen at Animal
Joan's on ThirdAurora ProvisionsServes as a community favorite for artisanal foods with a comforting vibe

From savoring the wood-fired dishes at Fore Street that echo the culinary innovation at LA’s Providence, to enjoying the artistic sushi creations at Izakaya Minato reminiscent of Sugarfish's carefully curated omakase experience, Portland is rich in dining parallels. If you're a fan of Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles, Becky's Diner offers the comfort of soulful, hearty meals cooked with passion and warmth, ideal for hitting that nostalgic homey spot. And when artisanal pizza calls your name, Belleville stands ready to serve pies characterized by quality ingredients and authenticity akin to LA's Pizzana. Each venue not only offers food but also a taste of the community-centric warmth that makes Portland's dining scene so unique.

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Los Angeles vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's vital to know how the housing markets in both Los Angeles and Portland compare. Understanding differences in cost, style, and lifestyle can help you make informed decisions.

ComparisonLos AngelesPortland
Typical Architecture StyleModern/Spanish ColonialNew England Colonial
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingPool, Gated communityFireplace, Garden space

As you prepare for your move, it's essential to consider how each city's housing characteristics align with your lifestyle. Los Angeles, renowned for its bustling modern and traditional Spanish Colonial architecture, offers numerous homes with luxurious amenities like pools. However, the city's notorious traffic might offset its urban appeal, reflected in its modest walkability score. In contrast, Portland's New England Colonial style aligns with its picturesque, bike-friendly environment, making it appealing to those who favor more outdoor activities and sustainability. Its real estate listings frequently highlight charming features like fireplaces and garden spaces, hinting at the cozy, community-oriented scenes you'll find in neighborhoods like the Greater Portland area.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, ME

1. Munjoy Hill : With its close proximity to the Eastern Promenade, this vibrant neighborhood offers easy access to parks and walking trails that you and your pet will love exploring together.

2. West End : Known for its tree-lined streets and pet-friendly cafes, the West End is a welcoming community with plenty of spots for you and your furry friend to enjoy, like the popular Tandem Coffee + Bakery.

3. East End : This neighborhood boasts several parks and open spaces that are ideal for pets, and you can often find other pet owners mingling at Rising Tide Brewing Company, which welcomes leashed dogs in their outdoor beer garden.

Los Angeles vs. Portland Weather Considerations

When transitioning from one city to another, understanding the weather differences is crucial. This guide offers a comparison of Los Angeles and Portland , ME, so you can better prepare for your new climate.

Summer icon
85/64

Los Angeles, CA

79/59

Portland, ME

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
67/48

Los Angeles, CA

34/16

Portland, ME

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
14

Los Angeles, CA

45

Portland, ME

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

Los Angeles, CA

66

Portland, ME

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonLos AngelesPortland
Air QualityModerate/ImprovingGood
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresNor'easters
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Moving from Los Angeles, with its abundance of sunny days, to Portland, where winters can be notably cold and snowy, may require some adjustments. You’ll go from experiencing moderate air quality in LA to generally good air quality in Portland, which can impact your overall well-being. While LA’s dry climate might have you focused on earthquakes and wildfires, Portland's challenges include heavy snowfall and nor’easters. The difference in annual rainfall is stark, so investing in sturdy rain gear is advisable for Portland's wetter climate.

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

When you're considering moving from Los Angeles, CA to Portland, ME , understanding the financial changes between the two cities is crucial. This comparison will help you anticipate what to expect in terms of income, taxes, and cost of living, ensuring a smoother transition.

ComparisonLos AngelesPortland
Avg. Household Income$70,372$70,244
Cost of Living Index136.4116.5
State Income Tax13.3%7.15%
Avg. Property Tax0.73%1.30%
Avg. Sales Tax9.5%5.5%
Top 3 IndustriesEntertainment, Technology, HospitalityHealthcare, Education, Tourism
AffluenceModerateModerate
PovertyHighModerate
HomelessnessVery HighLow

While the average household income in both Los Angeles and Portland is relatively similar, the lower cost of living in Portland can work to your advantage, especially in terms of housing and everyday expenses. Portland's state income tax rate is significantly lower, which means you might retain more of your earnings compared to Los Angeles. However, it's important to note that the property tax is higher in Portland, offsetting some of the cost of living benefits. The difference in sales tax can also be advantageous when making significant purchases. Understanding these financial differences can help you better budget and plan for your move.

Los Angeles vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison

The purpose of this comparison is to offer a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This guide will help you better understand the comparison of the politics between Los Angeles & Portland as well as the religious diversity.

Los AngelesPortland
Political Make-upLargely DemocraticPredominantly Democratic
Local Politics
Progressive city council, with focus on social justice issues. For more details, visit the official Los Angeles city website.

Strong focus on environmental policies and inclusivity. Learn more at Portland's city government website.
ReligionDiverse, with large segments of Christians, Buddhists, and irreligious groupsPrimarily Christian, but with a growing number of irreligious and spiritual individuals

As you consider moving, it's helpful to note that while both cities lean politically to the left, their priorities can differ. In Los Angeles, there is a strong emphasis on social justice, supported by a diverse and multicultural population that influences its local politics. Meanwhile, Portland also has progressive values but places noteworthy emphasis on environmental sustainability and inclusivity. Religion-wise, Los Angeles offers a broader spectrum of diversity, while Portland is primarily Christian with an increasing trend of spiritual exploration. Understanding these nuances will give you a clearer picture of the cultural and political landscape you’re about to embrace.

Los Angeles vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

When relocating from Los Angeles, CA to Portland, ME, it's helpful to compare the two cities to better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like. In this guide, we'll explore the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Los Angeles & Portland to help you adapt to your new environment easily.

ComparisonLos AngelesPortland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3020
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?NoYes

While Los Angeles's sprawling layout and heavy traffic congestion might make you feel chained to your car, Portland offers a more pedestrian-friendly environment. With a lower traffic congestion score, navigating Portland is generally less stressful and more efficient. Public transportation in Portland, such as the Casco Bay Lines ferry service and bus routes, are more robust, making it feasible to live without a car. You might find Portland's pace not only suits a desire for convenience but also provides a chance for a more relaxed lifestyle.

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