Best San Diego to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Diego to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,192 mile move from California to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 San Diego to Portland moving companies and more than 15,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is The Rock 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 San Diego 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.
Best San Diego to Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Rock Movers | 9.49 | 9.53 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. | 9.46 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | SC Moving Services | 9.19 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Atlas Transfer & Storage Co. | 8.94 | 8.13 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Diego to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,192 miles from San Diego, CA to Portland, ME will cost on average $4,496 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Diego to Portland move is roughly $10,879. 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 Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $3,012 | 300 ft³ | 10.04 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,496 | 450 ft³ | 9.99 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,455 | 750 ft³ | 9.94 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,879 | 1100 ft³ | 9.89 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,745 | 1600 ft³ | 9.84 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,623 | 1800 ft³ | 9.79 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to San Diego guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Diego to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
The Rock Movers
7087 Camino Revueltos UNIT 306
San Diego, CA, 92111
About The Rock Movers
The Rock Movers is a San Diego County-based moving company offering professional and affordable moving services for local and long-distance relocations....
Services
- Local Residential
- Furniture Moving
- Full Packing Service
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3653432 / 1541470 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 40,000 (2023) |
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
2020 Camino De La Reina
San Diego, CA, 92108
About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill,...
Services
- Local Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3177184 / 1157114 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 7 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200,000 (2024) |
You Move Me Portland
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2388358 / 820850 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 10 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 45,000 (2020) |
SC Moving Services
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
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2324405 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2016) |
Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
13026 Stowe Dr A
Poway, CA, 92064
About Atlas Transfer & Storage Co.
Founded in 1925, Atlas Transfer & Storage Company has been serving Southern California for over 95 years. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Long Distance Moving
- International Moving
- Storage Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 877737 / 383831 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 8,778 (2022) |
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.
San Diego vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can feel overwhelming, but comparing neighborhoods helps ease the transition. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll compare San Diego, CA & Portland, ME neighborhoods to find their similar counterparts.
| San Diego | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| La Jolla | East End | Upscale coastal living |
| Gaslamp Quarter | Old Port | Vibrant nightlife |
| North Park | Arts District | Eclectic art scene |
| Hillcrest | West End | Diverse community vibe |
| Ocean Beach | Willard Beach | Laid-back beach culture |
| Pacific Beach | Back Cove | Scenic waterfront area |
| Little Italy | Munjoy Hill | Culinary hotspot |
| Carmel Valley | Deering Center | Family-friendly suburb |
| South Park | Rosemont | Neighborhood charm and cafes |
| Mission Hills | Peaks Island | Historic homes |
If you appreciate the coastal charm of La Jolla with its stunning views and luxurious living, you'll enjoy exploring Portland's East End, known for its upscale waterfront homes and vibrant culture. The dynamic nightlife of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter finds a fitting counterpart in Old Port, where cobblestone streets are lined with lively bars and restaurants. For those drawn to the eclectic and artistic vibe of North Park, Portland's Arts District offers a rich tapestry of galleries, theaters, and creative spaces. Hillcrest's diverse community and welcoming atmosphere resonate with Portland's West End, where a vibrant blend of cultures and lifestyles creates a lively tapestry of experiences. Lastly, if the laid-back beach culture of Ocean Beach is your scene, the easy-going vibe of Willard Beach provides a perfect match with sandy shores and a relaxed atmosphere.
Things to Do in Portland
Walk along the Eastern Promenade- Explore Portland Museum of Art
- Shop at Portland Farmers' Market
- Catch a show at State Theatre
- Dine in the Old Port District
- Visit Children's Museum & Theatre
- Bike the Greenbelt Walkway
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Diego to Portland
The purpose of this comparison is to provide a balanced view, showcasing the good and the bad attributes when considering a relocation from San Diego, CA to Portland, ME . This will help you make an informed decision by assessing various lifestyle aspects influenced by this move.
San Diego, CA- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Expensive dining options
- Mild winters
- Limited public transport
Portland, ME- More affordable housing
- Less crowded streets
- More local eateries
- Enjoyable seasons
- Better transit systems
Portland, ME- Chilly Atlantic waters
- Cold, snowy winters
- Fewer dining options
- Quieter evenings
- Fewer major events
San Diego, CA- Beautiful beaches
- Year-round sunshine
- Diverse culinary scene
- Vibrant nightlife
- Rich cultural events
One major advantage of Portland, ME over San Diego, CA is the affordability of housing, making neighborhoods like Deering Center more attractive to budget-conscious movers. While San Diego's lively nightlife, featuring hotspots like the Gaslamp Quarter, is hard to beat, Portland offers its charm with local spots such as Johnson Hall and quaint eateries nestled in the Old Port area. Although the cold, snowy winters of Maine might be a significant change, they provide an opportunity for winter sports and activities that aren't typically available in San Diego. Additionally, the less congested streets and enhanced public transit options in Portland provide a slower, more relaxed pace, making it easier to explore the city's neighborhoods.
San Diego vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and offers insight into what it's like to live in an area. Here’s a culinary journey through San Diego & Portland , highlighting their vibrant food scenes to help you make an informed move.
| San Diego | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | California Burrito | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Fish Tacos | Beef Brisket Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Carne Asada Fries | Food Cart Gyro |
| Most popular vegan food | Acai Bowl | Tempeh Bowl |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Portland, ME offers a rich culinary experience with iconic dishes and diverse options. The vibrant food truck scene is primarily found throughout Eastern Promenade and Old Port, where you'll encounter artisanal offerings like the famed lobster roll. For a taste of Portland's prized delicacies, be sure to visit Eventide Oyster Co., known for its creative oyster preparations. Portland is also a haven for vegans, scoring high in terms of vegan-friendly options, with establishments like The Green Light Kitchen located in West End serving delicious plant-based fare.
San Diego vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Food is a fundamental part of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison between San Diego and Portland will help you find your new favorite eateries using your current hometown as a guide, ensuring your culinary journey continues seamlessly.
| San Diego | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Herb & Wood | Fore Street | Both offer upscale New American cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. |
| Phil's BBQ | Salvage BBQ | Each is a mecca for barbecue lovers with finger-licking good ribs. |
| The Taco Stand | Taco Trio | Renowned for authentic Mexican street tacos, drawing loyal patrons. |
| Hodad's | Harmon’s Lunch | Both serve mouthwatering burgers that have become local icons. |
| George's at the Cove | Scales | Known for captivating views and exquisitely prepared seafood dishes. |
| The Crack Shack | Hot Suppa | Casual vibes with high-quality takes on comfort food classics. |
| Craft & Commerce | Eventide Oyster Co. | Both offer inventive cocktails and trendy, upscale dining environments. |
| Extraordinary Desserts | Two Fat Cats Bakery | Both are famed for divine, decadent sweets and pastries. |
| Point Loma Seafoods | Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster Co. | Each provides fresh-from-the-ocean seafood selections. |
| Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill | J's Oyster | Both serve fresh, no-frills seafood in a laid-back setting loved by locals and visitors alike. |
Moving from the sunny beaches of San Diego to the coastal charm of Portland offers culinary explorers much to savor. At Fore Street, you’ll find a focus on seasonal, local ingredients reminiscent of the sophisticated yet approachable dishes at Herb & Wood. For authentic Mexican flavor lovers, Taco Trio houses the bustling vibe and authentic street taco experience that you’ve enjoyed at The Taco Stand in San Diego. And then there’s the glorious barbecue haven, Salvage BBQ, echoing the essence of Phil’s BBQ—where you'll find yourself diving into tender, smoky ribs that challenge you to keep your fingers clean. Whichever city you find yourself in, you'll always have a taste of home with but a new regional twist.
Ready to start your move?
San Diego vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most significant aspects of a move. Understanding how San Diego and Portland compare in housing can provide insights into your new life. Reviewing differences in real estate can prepare you financially and culturally for this transition.
| Comparison | San Diego | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Spanish Mission | Colonial Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Beach access | Fireplaces |
The median home price in San Diego is substantially higher than in Portland, reflecting its status as a sought-after coastal destination. While you might pay more in San Diego, you're often paying for proximity to beautiful beaches and the city’s vibrant urban lifestyle. On the other hand, Portland offers a more affordable market, but its charm lies in its distinct Colonial Revival architecture and amenities like fireplaces, which suit its cooler climate. If you're an avid cyclist, Portland 's bike-friendly streets will be a welcome change. San Diego's walkability highlights its bustling neighborhoods, whereas Portland provides a more quaint, leisurely pace.
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.
San Diego vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When you're relocating from one place to another, it's crucial to understand how the weather will differ. This comparison between San Diego and Portland will help you prepare for daily life in your new home, from attire to activities and even health considerations. Understanding these aspects ensures a smoother transition and better planning.
San Diego, CA
Portland, ME
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Portland, ME
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Diego, CA
Portland, ME
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Diego, CA
Portland, ME
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Diego | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from San Diego to Portland, you'll notice significant differences in weather patterns. Portland's winters are much colder, with winter chill averaging at 34/13 degrees compared to San Diego's milder 66/51. Prepare for more rain and even snow, as Portland sees an average annual rainfall of 48 inches and 71 inches of snowfall. These weather changes not only affect daily activities but could also influence health, like experiencing different allergies due to Portland's prevalent tree pollen.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Diego to Portland
Understanding the cost of living is crucial when relocating from San Diego, CA to Portland, ME . This comparison helps you grasp the financial differences between these two locations, ensuring a seamless transition.
| Comparison | San Diego | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $93,042 | $70,244 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.3 | 116.5 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 7.15 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.76 | 1.30 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.75 | 5.50 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Tourism, Military | Healthcare, Retail, Education |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
Moving to Portland from San Diego may mean adjusting to a lower average household income, but you will also benefit from a more affordable cost of living. Portland's cost of living index is significantly lower than San Diego’s, which can help ease the financial burden. Taxes will also play a role in your budgeting, with Oregon offering lower state income tax rates despite its higher property taxes compared to California. These economic factors, alongside differences in regional industries, will inform your financial decisions in your new home.
San Diego vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Comparing the politics between San Diego & Portland gives you insight into how these two cities align or differ in their local governance and community beliefs.
| San Diego | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate, leaning Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | City Council with a focus on urban development | Council prioritizes sustainability and social equity |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | More diverse religious and non-religious population |
When you move from San Diego to Portland, you'll find yourself in a city with a more progressive political stance. Portland's local politics are heavily centered on sustainability and social equity, echoing the city's deep roots in environmental and social issues. The religious landscape in Portland also presents a more diverse picture, providing a broader range of beliefs and practices, contrasted with San Diego's predominantly Christian demographic. This diversity might offer opportunities to explore different cultural and spiritual communities within the city.
San Diego vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic can be crucial when moving to a new city. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Diego & Portland will help you better plan your daily life and get acquainted with your new surroundings.
| Comparison | San Diego | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possibly | Yes |
In San Diego, while the average commute time is slightly higher, the city experiences moderate traffic congestion. However, the public transit options are reasonably well-developed, making it potentially possible to manage without owning a car. In contrast, Portland offers even greater public transit accessibility, which means it's generally easier to rely on buses and trains. The local [TriMet](https://trimet.org/) system in Portland provides extensive coverage, helping residents lead a convenient car-free lifestyle. Exploring these options could offer valuable insights into your daily commuting possibilities in either city.
Additional Resources
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