Best San Jose to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from San Jose to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,279 mile move from California to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 San Jose 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 D&L 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 Jose 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 Jose to Portland Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Jose to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,279 miles from San Jose, CA to Portland, ME will cost on average $4,570 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Portland move is roughly $11,060. 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 | $3,061 | 300 ft³ | 10.20 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,570 | 450 ft³ | 10.15 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,579 | 750 ft³ | 10.10 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $11,060 | 1100 ft³ | 10.05 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $16,008 | 1600 ft³ | 10.00 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,919 | 1800 ft³ | 9.95 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to San Jose guide.
Compare the 5 Best San Jose to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
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) |
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
San Carlos, CA, 94070
About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC
Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within California. Located...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3184868 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 250,000 (2022) |
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 Jose vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Using your experiences in your existing city as a baseline can greatly help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city. Here, we will compare the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Portland, ME to guide you through popular spots in each location.
| San Jose | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Glen | West End | Quaint charm and tree-lined streets |
| Downtown | Old Port | Bustling urban center with lively nightlife |
| Rose Garden | East End | Historic beauty and cultural attractions |
| Almaden Valley | Deering Center | Suburban, family-friendly vibe |
| Santana Row | East Bayside | Modern shopping and entertainment |
Budding with quaint charm, San Jose's Willow Glen can be closely compared to Portland's West End, where you'll find tree-lined streets and a cozy neighborhood atmosphere. If you thrive in the bustling urban vibes of San Jose's Downtown, Portland's Old Port awaits you with its lively nightlife and a plethora of dining options like Nova for a delightful dining experience. For those inspired by the historical beauty of San Jose’s Rose Garden, the East End in Portland, featuring historic landmarks is an ideal match with cultural hotspots such as the Portland Museum of Art. Soak in the suburban, family-oriented vibe in Deering Center if you appreciate the community-focused environment of Almaden Valley, complete with access to parks and local schools.
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 Jose to Portland
Relocating from one city to another is a major decision that comes with a myriad of changes to consider. This comparison provides an honest reflection of the San Jose, CA cons and Portland, ME pros as well as the San Jose, CA pros and Portland, ME cons, aiding you in making a well-informed choice for your move.
San Jose, CA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic
- Drought conditions
- Tech-centric lifestyle
- Limited seasons
Portland, ME- Affordable housing
- Less congestion
- Abundant greenery
- Cultural diversity
- Four seasons
Portland, ME- Fewer tech opportunities
- Harsh winters
- Quieter evenings
- Limited higher education
San Jose, CA- Strong tech job market
- Sunny weather
- Vibrant nightlife
- Top-tier universities
Moving to Portland, ME from San Jose, CA opens up a unique lifestyle shift. Embrace lush greenery and numerous parks like Eastern Promenade, a sharp contrast to California's drought-stricken land. Although the tech industry might not be as booming as in San Jose, Portland's cultural diversity is enriched by spots like Old Port, known for its quaint cobblestone streets and vibrant arts scene. The more affordable cost of living in Portland means you can dine at exceptional restaurants like Eventide Oyster Co. without breaking the bank. Prepare for four full seasons, something you might not have experienced before, and explore Portland's seasonal beauty—from summer kayak excursions to winter serenities by the Forest City.
San Jose vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is a vital component of local culture, greatly shaping what it's like to live in an area. By exploring the local cuisine between San Jose & Portland , you can better prepare for the vibrant food scene awaiting you in your new city. This comparison will guide you through the culinary offerings of each location.
| San Jose | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Tacos | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular street food item | Burritos | Donuts |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Tacos | Tofu Scramble |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, renowned seafood like lobster rolls can be most commonly found in the Old Port district, which is also swarming with beloved food trucks serving everything from gourmet donuts to lobster dishes. Fore Street, nestled in Portland's Old Port neighborhood, remains a must-visit due to its emphasis on local, sustainable ingredients. For a taste of unique seafood dishes, Eventide Oyster Co. is highly recommended. On the West Coast, San Jose's La Victoria Taqueria is famous for its vibrant burritos, while Oren’s Hummus is praised for rich, Mediterranean flavors in the bustling downtown area. Such diverse culinary experiences define each city's flavorful personality.
San Jose vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Discovering new favorite eateries can be a delightful part of settling into a new city. This restaurant comparison will help you transition from San Jose to Portland, ME , offering culinary guidance by matching beloved spots from your current hometown with similar locales in your new surroundings.
| San Jose | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Manresa | Fore Street | A fine dining mecca with fresh, local ingredients akin to those found at Manresa |
| Back A Yard Caribbean Grill | Baharat | Caribbean flavors meet dynamic culinary offerings at Baharat |
| Original Joe's | J's Oyster | Classic seafood with vintage charm that mirrors Original Joe's cozy tradition |
| La Victoria Taqueria | Taco Escobarr | Authentic Mexican flavors infused with the vibrant spirit of La Victoria Taqueria |
| Din Tai Fung | Boda | Boda captures the essence of sophisticated Asian small plates much like Din Tai Fung |
| Iguanas Burritozilla | El Corazon | A Mexican kitchen that stands up to Iguanas' massive burrito offerings |
| Paper Plane | Cocktail Mary | Drink ingenuity at Cocktail Mary is the perfect equivalent of Paper Plane's craft cocktails |
| Henry’s World Famous Hi-Life | The Porthole Restaurant & Pub | Steaks and grilled offerings that rival the tastes of Henry's Hi-Life |
| SJ Omogari | Korean BBQ Seoul | Korean BBQ treats bring the rich taste of SJ Omogari to Portland |
| Palo Alto Creamery | Beals Ice Cream | Traditional American dessert joy reminiscent of Palo Alto Creamery's offerings |
When it comes to high-end dining, [Fore Street](https://forestreet.biz/) in Portland reflects the refined elegance and dedication to local sourcing found at San Jose's [Manresa](https://www.manresarestaurant.com/). As lovers of authentic Mexican cuisine, you'll find a home in [Taco Escobarr](https://tacoescobarr.com/), which brings the vibrant and traditional essence from San Jose's [La Victoria Taqueria](https://www.lavicsj.com/). For those seeking the heartiness of classic American seafood, [J's Oyster](https://jsoyster.com/) embodies the old-world charm akin to [Original Joe's](https://originaljoes.com/), delivering an experience that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how the two cities, San Jose and Portland , compare. Exploring differences in housing costs , architecture, and the lifestyle can help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | San Jose | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch-Style and Contemporary | Colonial and Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Tech-connected homes, Proximity to Santana Row | Waterfront views, Proximity to Old Port |
When transitioning from San Jose to Portland, you'll notice significant differences in real estate landscapes. San Jose's sky-high home prices reflect its tech-driven economy, whereas Portland offers a more affordable market. In Portland, unique architectural styles such as Colonial and Victorian are prevalent, adding charm and character to its neighborhoods. While San Jose thrives with a high urban lifestyle rating due to its tech-friendly amenities and bustling areas like Santana Row, Portland offers more in terms of walkability and bikeability, encouraging a more laid-back, community-focused living environment near attractions like the picturesque Old Port.
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 Jose vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When moving from one location to another, understanding the weather variations is crucial for adapting smoothly. Here, we compare the weather of San Jose, CA , and Portland, ME , helping you prepare for what to expect in your new environment.
San Jose, CA
Portland, ME
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Portland, ME
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Portland, ME
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Jose, CA
Portland, ME
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Jose | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Excellent |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Northeasters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from San Jose to Portland means adjusting to colder winters and significantly more snowfall. While San Jose enjoys mild, dry weather almost year-round, Portland experiences distinct seasonal changes, with plenty of rain and snow. Additionally, you might find the higher humidity in Portland refreshing compared to San Jose's drier atmosphere. Sunshine lovers may notice fewer sunny days in Portland, but the crisp air quality and charming New England atmosphere might more than compensate for it.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Portland
If you're moving from San Jose, CA to Portland, ME , it's essential to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you're used to. This comparison will help you make informed financial decisions as you transition between these two cities.
| Comparison | San Jose | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $126,377 | $70,244 |
| Cost of Living Index | 156.1 | 116.5 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3% | 7.15% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79% | 1.30% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25% | 5.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tech, Education, Health | Healthcare, Retail, Tourism |
| Affluence | Wealthy | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
Moving from San Jose to Portland means adjusting to a significantly different economic landscape. The average household income in San Jose is nearly double that of Portland, reflecting its wealthier demographic profile. However, the cost of living in San Jose is also much higher, mainly due to housing costs, making Portland a more affordable option overall. Despite Portland's moderately higher property taxes, the state's lower income and sales taxes can alleviate some financial burdens. Additionally, with Portland's economy being more focused on healthcare and tourism, you might find different job opportunities compared to San Jose's tech-driven market.
San Jose vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents to help you understand what to expect when moving. Pay special attention to the comparison of the politics between San Jose & Portland for a nuanced overview of your new community.
| San Jose | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive initiatives, city government | Environmental sustainability, city government |
| Religion | Varied: Catholic, Protestant, and non-religious | Less religious, more secular |
As you transition from San Jose to Portland, you'll notice not just a shift in climate but also in community values. San Jose has a vibrant political landscape dominated by progressive Democratic values, much like Portland. However, Portland is even more fiercely committed to specific initiatives like environmental sustainability. While San Jose boasts a diverse range of religious practices, reflecting its multicultural population, Portland leans more secular with an emphasis on inclusivity. Understanding these differences can help you acclimate and perhaps influence your own activities and social circles in your new city.
San Jose vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To better understand the daily commute and traffic, this section provides a comprehensive comparison of transportation options between San Jose & Portland . Whether you're considering traffic congestion, public transit availability, or the feasibility of getting by without a car, this guide will help you navigate your decision.
| Comparison | San Jose | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
While moving from San Jose to Portland, you might appreciate the reduced traffic congestion in your new city. Portland scores lower at a traffic congestion level of 5 out of 10 compared to San Jose's 7. This can make daily commutes, averaged at 25 minutes, slightly more predictable. Furthermore, Portland's public transit system is more robust, with a score of 8 out of 10. This means you might find it feasible to navigate the city without relying heavily on a car, thanks to their extensive [public transit options](https://portlandmaine.gov/324/Public-Transportation). In contrast, San Jose offers moderate public transport options, making a car more of a necessity for getting around efficiently.
Additional Resources
San Jose Moving Services
Popular San Jose to Maine Routes
Popular Moving Resources
