Best San Francisco to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Francisco to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,206 mile move from California to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 18 San Francisco 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), 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 Francisco 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 Francisco to Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | SC Moving Services | 9.18 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Francisco to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,206 miles from San Francisco, CA to Portland, ME will cost on average $4,508 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Francisco to Portland move is roughly $10,909. 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 | $3,020 | 300 ft³ | 10.07 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,508 | 450 ft³ | 10.02 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,475 | 750 ft³ | 9.97 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,909 | 1100 ft³ | 9.92 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,787 | 1600 ft³ | 9.87 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,670 | 1800 ft³ | 9.82 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to San Francisco guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Francisco to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2022) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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) |
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 Francisco vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
In moving from the vibrant cities of San Francisco, CA & Portland, ME , this guide aims to ease your transition by offering insights through comparing local neighborhoods. Use your familiarity with neighborhoods in San Francisco as a baseline to explore Portland, ME's closest equivalents.
| San Francisco | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Mission District | East Bayside | Diverse, artsy vibe |
| Pacific Heights | West End | Upscale, historic homes |
| SoMa | Bayside | Tech scene, industrial chic |
| Noe Valley | Deering Center | Family-friendly, charming |
| Haight-Ashbury | Munjoy Hill | Quirky, bohemian spirit |
| Castro | Arts District | Vibrant LGBTQ+ community |
| North Beach | Old Port | Bustling nightlife, historic |
| Chinatown | Chinatown Portland | Cultural, bustling markets |
| Presidio | Back Cove | Parks and scenic views |
| Richmond District | Rosemont | Quiet, suburban feel |
If you're fond of the diverse, artsy vibe of the Mission District in San Francisco, you'll find a similar creative energy in Portland's East Bayside, known for its eclectic mix of art studios and breweries like the popular Rising Tide Brewing Company. For those who love the lush greenery and scenic trails of Presidio, Portland's Back Cove offers picturesque paths along the water with views that inspire tranquility. Meanwhile, Chinatown's bustling markets and cultural flair can be mirrored in the lively atmosphere of Portland's own Chinatown, where you're bound to enjoy authentic dishes and vibrant street festivals. And, should you miss the rich history and grand homes of Pacific Heights, Portland's West End, with its own collection of stately, historic buildings, stands ready to impress.
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 Francisco to Portland
Relocating from one city to another inevitably involves weighing both positives and negatives. The purpose of this comparison is to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of moving from San Francisco, CA to Portland, ME . By considering both perspectives, you can resolve whether this move aligns with your lifestyle goals and expectations.
San Francisco, CA- High Cost of Living
- Severe Traffic Congestion
- Earthquake Risk
- Tech-Dominated Economy
Portland, ME- Affordable Housing
- Less Traffic
- Minimal Natural Disasters
- Diverse Local Businesses
Portland, ME- Limited Nightlife
- Less Cultural Diversity
- Cold, Snowy Winters
- Fewer Dining Options
San Francisco, CA- Eclectic Nightlife
- Rich Cultural Scene
- Year-Round Mild Climate
- International Cuisine
Portland, ME offers you an opportunity to explore a lifestyle that's less burdened by high costs, notably in housing, compared to San Francisco, CA. The friendly neighborhoods like the Old Port are peppered with charming shops and local eateries such as Holy Donut. While you may miss the vibrant nightlife of the Castro or Mission districts, Portland makes up for it with an engaging local arts scene highlighted by establishments like Portland Museum of Art. Although fewer international dining options may be available, you'll be able to get a taste of the Maine seafood at spots like Eventide Oyster Co. Lastly, you might find comfort in Portland's lower risk of natural disasters, even if winter brings colder temperatures.
San Francisco vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and gives insight into what it's like to live in an area. This guide provides a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Portland , so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| San Francisco | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Cioppino | Lobster Bake |
| Most popular street food item | Burrito | Fish Taco |
| Most popular vegan food | Avocado Toast | Kale Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move to Portland, you will find that neighborhoods like the Old Port and East Bayside boast a variety of iconic foods, such as the famed lobster roll, which you can enjoy at places like Eventide Oyster Co. The city also has a thriving food truck scene, especially around the Maine Wharf area, renowned for its vibrant selection of meals on wheels. If you're vegan, Portland offers delightful options like kale salads frequently found in locally sourced establishments. Though San Francisco has a robust foodie scene, Portland brings its unique charm with an emphasis on seafood and local creativity.
San Francisco vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite eatery can make your transition from one city to another smoother. By comparing the culinary gems of San Francisco and Portland , this guide aims to help you discover the spots that can make Portland, ME feel like home.
| San Francisco | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Tartine Bakery | Standard Baking Co | Known for its fresh artisan breads and pastries, evoking the same warm, inviting atmosphere. |
| Zuni Café | Fore Street | Offers a focus on seasonal and local ingredients with an open kitchen experience. |
| Swan Oyster Depot | The Highroller Lobster Co | Famous for its seafood fare, particularly lobster and oysters. |
| Nopa | Central Provisions | Known for its small plates and vibrant bar scene. |
| Bi-Rite Creamery | Mount Desert Island Ice Cream | Offers inventive flavors with a local twist. |
| La Taqueria | El Rayo Taqueria | Boasts a menu filled with authentic Mexican flavors. |
| Delfina | Tipo | Provides an upscale Italian dining experience with house-made pasta. |
| State Bird Provisions | Scales | Offers a fresh take on classic New England seafood with modern flair. |
| The Slanted Door | Saigon Restaurant | Excels in delivering Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist. |
| Brenda's French Soul Food | The Front Room | Embraces hearty dishes with comforting, Southern-inspired flavors. |
When searching for high-quality seafood, The Highroller Lobster Co in Portland echoes the time-honored charm and freshness found at San Francisco’s Swan Oyster Depot. Whether you’re a fan of artisan breads or crave a creamery's inventive delights, Standard Baking Co and Mount Desert Island Ice Cream are bound to impress with their unique flavors. If homemade pasta and classic Italian fare are what you crave, Tipo stands ready to deliver an experience reminiscent of dining at Delfina. Portland's culinary scene, like San Francisco's, brings together local ingredients and international influences, making it an exciting arena for food enthusiasts.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your relocation, understanding the housing differences between San Francisco, CA and Portland, ME can significantly influence your decision. Real estate is one of the most critical aspects of a move, making it imperative to know how San Francisco and Portland compare in terms of cost, architecture, and lifestyle features.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Parks, public transport | Historic homes, waterfront |
In moving to Portland from San Francisco, you’ll notice a significant drop in home prices and rent. San Francisco, with its iconic Victorian architecture, presents a more vibrant urban lifestyle, partly because of its extensive public transportation system and plentiful parks. On the other hand, Portland offers serene historic homes and picturesque waterfront properties, reflecting its Colonial roots. While you may trade off some walkability and bikeability, Portland’s quaint streets offer a different charm that appeals to those seeking a slower-paced lifestyle.
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 Francisco vs. Portland Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from San Francisco to Portland, ME , it's crucial to understand the weather differences between the two cities. This comparison will help you prepare for changes in climate and lifestyle, ensuring a smoother transition as you adjust to Portland’s distinct weather patterns.
San Francisco, CA
Portland, ME
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Portland, ME
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Portland, ME
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Portland, ME
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Winter Storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Francisco to Portland, ME means you'll experience distinct seasonal changes. Existing in San Francisco's mild, Mediterranean climate with infrequent rain contrasts sharply with Portland's cold and snowy winters. This means you'll need to prepare for much lower temperatures and significantly more snow during winter months. Portland, known for a vibrant autumn, also offers you a unique spectacle of colorful foliage that is less pronounced in San Francisco. While both cities boast good air quality, Portland tends to have fewer days of sunshine, which may affect your outdoor activities. Adapting your wardrobe and lifestyle to embrace the richness of all four seasons in Portland will undoubtedly be an essential aspect of settling in.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Portland
If you're moving from San Francisco to Portland , you need to understand how the cost of living in these cities differs. Comparing finances will help you plan your budget and expenses effectively when transitioning to a new location.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $70,244 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 116.5 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 7.15 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.73 | 1.25 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 5.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Healthcare | Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Affluent | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Moderate |
When considering a move to Portland from San Francisco, you'll likely notice a significant decrease in both the cost of living and household income. Portland's cost-of-living index, though substantially lower, aligns more with its moderate income levels, which may require you to adjust your budgeting habits. Additionally, Portland presents a more favorable state income tax rate compared to California, offering potential savings in your annual tax burden. However, the property tax rate in Portland is higher, making it essential to consider your housing expenses carefully. By understanding these financial differences, you’ll be better equipped to enjoy Portland's unique lifestyle without unexpected financial strain.
San Francisco vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
This section provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. You will notice the comparison of the politics between San Francisco & Portland that highlights their unique characteristics and cultures.
| San Francisco | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly liberal | Predominantly liberal |
| Local Politics | Strong advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights | Environmental sustainability focus |
| Religion | Religiously diverse | Predominantly non-religious |
Both San Francisco and Portland lean heavily toward liberal political views, yet their local priorities reveal subtle differences. In San Francisco, there's a strong emphasis on advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, supported by numerous community organizations and events. On the other hand, Portland places a significant focus on environmental sustainability, often called "The Green City" for its initiatives promoting eco-friendly practices. Though diverse in its religious composition, San Francisco tends to reflect the melting pot that is California, whereas Portland's population is primarily non-religious, mirrored by the city's laid-back ethos. These cultural distinctions offer a rich experience, shaping each city's unique personality.
San Francisco vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
In making the move from San Francisco, CA to Portland, ME, it’s crucial to understand the differences in daily commuting and traffic patterns. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Portland will provide insights to help you adjust to the flow of your new city life effectively.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
While San Francisco is renowned for its efficient and far-reaching public transit network, including options like the BART and Muni, giving you the luxury to live car-free, Portland, ME relies more heavily on personal vehicle use, although it offers the METRO bus service and some train options. The reduced congestion in Portland might make driving a more pleasant experience compared to the heavier traffic in San Francisco, where commute times are notably longer. Despite having a less extensive public transit system, Portland's reduced traffic levels can translate to a less stressful car commute compared to the hustle and bustle often experienced in the Bay Area.
Additional Resources
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