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 664 mile move from California to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 34 San Jose 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 D&L Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 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
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D&L Movers | 9.34 | 9.36 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Careful Movers | 9.31 | 8.63 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC | 9.24 | 9.14 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from San Jose to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 664 miles from San Jose, CA to Portland, OR will cost on average $2,346 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom San Jose to Portland move is roughly $5,624. 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 | $1,579 | 300 ft³ | 5.26 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,346 | 450 ft³ | 5.21 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,872 | 750 ft³ | 5.16 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,624 | 1100 ft³ | 5.11 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,101 | 1600 ft³ | 5.06 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,024 | 1800 ft³ | 5.01 |
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) |
Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
All Service Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service Moving66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
| Registered Drivers | 113 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |
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) |
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
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not sure where to start looking for a new home. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Portland, OR . This guide is designed to help you find a neighborhood in Portland that reminds you of home, using San Jose's popular neighborhoods as a baseline.
| San Jose | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Willow Glen | Sellwood-Moreland | Family-friendly, community-oriented |
| Downtown San Jose | Pearl District | Urban living, vibrant arts scene |
| Almaden Valley | Bethany | Quiet, suburban feel |
| Silver Creek | West Hills | Upscale, private homes |
| Rose Garden | Irvington | Historic homes, charming streets |
| Japantown | Old Town Chinatown | Cultural hubs, rich history |
| Santana Row | NW 23rd Ave | Trendy shopping, dining |
| Evergreen | Hillsdale | Family-oriented, green spaces |
| Los Gatos | Laurelhurst | Elegant, tranquil atmosphere |
| Berryessa | St. Johns | Diverse, strong sense of community |
If you're fond of the historic charm and lush scenery of Rose Garden in San Jose, you'll be enamored by Portland's Irvington neighborhood, renowned for its beautifully preserved historic homes and shaded streets. Similarly, those drawn to the vibrant, diverse cultural experiences of Japantown will find a resounding echo in Portland's Old Town Chinatown, where every corner offers a slice of rich history blended with modern vibrancy. For shopping enthusiasts accustomed to the trendy boutiques of Santana Row, NW 23rd Avenue in Portland offers a comparable experience with its array of unique shops and upscale dining options, enveloped in a distinctively laid-back Northwest vibe. And for those who cherish the community-oriented, family-friendly atmosphere of Willow Glen, Sellwood-Moreland in Portland mirrors this quality, boasting an enviable sense of neighborhood camaraderie amidst scenic parks and engaging local events.
Things to Do in Portland
Hike in Forest Park- Stroll through Portland Japanese Garden
- Enjoy food carts at various locations
- Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
- Explore Powell's City of Books
- Sample brews on a craft brewery tour
- Watch a movie at Cinema 21
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from San Jose to Portland
Deciding to move from San Jose, CA to Portland, OR involves considering a mix of benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping to inform your decision with a balanced perspective.
San Jose, CA- High Living Cost
- Intense Tech Competition
- Heavy Traffic
- Less Greenery
Portland, OR- More Affordable
- Laid-Back Job Market
- Smaller Traffic Issues
- Lush Landscapes
Portland, OR- Less Tech Opportunities
- More Rainfall
- Smaller Economy
- Quainter Downtown
San Jose, CA- Technological Hub
- Sunny Weather
- Strong Economy
- Vibrant Downtown
Moving from San Jose to Portland offers a significant change in both lifestyle and environment. While San Jose boasts of its status as a technological hub with names like Apple and Google calling it home, Portland, despite having a smaller tech scene, is celebrated for its thriving creative community, exemplified by areas like the Pearl District. The shift from the sunny, bustling streets of San Jose to Portland's rain-kissed, lush landscapes provides a stark contrast, offering outdoor enthusiasts a paradise in spots like Washington Park. Living costs drop noticeably, providing relief without sacrificing the quality of life, thanks to a plethora of dining options like those found on Portland's food scene, which continually draws nationwide attention.
San Jose vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is an integral part of understanding a city's culture and the quality of life you can expect. In this guide, we're highlighting the differences and similarities to anticipate in your culinary journey. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose and Portland, to better prepare you for the move and introduce you to the food scenes awaiting you.
| San Jose | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pho | Donuts |
| Most popular meat dish | Carne Asada | Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Carts' Fusion Cuisine |
| Most popular vegan food | Banh Mi Chay | Tempeh |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving from San Jose to Portland, you'll transition from the rich, multicultural flavors of Silicon Valley to the eclectic, farm-to-table ethos of the Pacific Northwest. In Portland, venues like Pok Pok showcase the city's affinity for bold, authentic flavors, especially noted in areas like the Alberta Arts District. Here, food carts serve as hubs of innovation, offering everything from gourmet fusion dishes to hearty vegan options. Portland's commitment to health and sustainability is reflected in its abundant vegan-friendly restaurants and the widespread availability of locally-sourced ingredients. This city takes its coffee and craft beer just as seriously, with local roasters and brewers enhancing the vibrant food scene.
San Jose vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, discovering local eateries where you feel at home is crucial. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition by guiding you from your familiar favorites in San Jose to new culinary delights in Portland. Whether your preference leans towards high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic staples, these recommendations will help ensure you won't miss a beat—or a meal—in your new city.
| San Jose | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Adega | Coquine | Michelin-quality, farm-to-table dining. |
| La Foret Restaurant | Castagna | A modern culinary experience with unique flavors. |
| Original Joe's San Jose | Piazza Italia | Classic Italian in a cozy, family-friendly setting. |
| Smoking Pig BBQ | Podnah’s Pit Barbecue | Slow-cooked meats with a commitment to traditional methods. |
| Falafel Drive-In | Nicholas Restaurant | Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with a similar casual vibe. |
| Back A Yard | Kee’s #Loaded Kitchen | Creative, generous plates in a laid-back atmosphere. |
| Dia de Pesca | Chef Naoko Bento Café | Sustainable, seafood-focused dishes with a Japanese twist. |
| Manresa | Le Pigeon | Adventurous, French-inspired tasting menus. |
| San Pedro Square Market | Pine Street Market | A variety of artisanal food vendors under one roof. |
| Henry's World Famous Hi-Life | Russell Street BBQ | A homely, old-school take on American BBQ favorites. |
Discovering your new go-to dining spots in Portland can be an exhilarating adventure, especially when restaurants like Coquine and Castagna offer high-end, farm-to-table dining experiences that are reminiscent of Adega and La Foret Restaurant in San Jose. The transition from the casual, iconic Falafel Drive-In won't feel as far when you step into Nicholas Restaurant, where the authenticity of Middle Eastern cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere await. For those missing the slow-cooked meats of Smoking Pig BBQ, Podnah’s Pit Barbecue in Portland stands ready with its dedication to traditional barbecue methods. Lastly, the community ambiance of San Pedro Square Market is mirrored by Pine Street Market, presenting a collection of artisanal food vendors that offer something unique and delicious for every palate.
Ready to start your move?
San Jose vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, it's crucial to understand how San Jose, CA and Portland, OR match up in the real estate domain. This comparison sheds light on housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle facets, key for making an informed decision.
| Comparison | San Jose | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Spanish | Craftsman and Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Smart Home Features, Solar Panels | Eco-friendly Materials, Proximity to Nature |
Moving from San Jose to Portland, you'll discover significant differences in housing costs and lifestyle. In Portland, the median home price and rent are considerably lower than in San Jose, making it an appealing city for many looking for a more affordable cost of living without sacrificing an urban lifestyle. Architecturally, San Jose tends to favor modern and Spanish styles, while Portland is renowned for its Craftsman bungalows, aligning with its reputation for eco-friendliness and proximity to nature. This architectural difference is not just aesthetic but reflects the environmental values of each city. Moreover, Portland's higher walkability and bikeability scores exemplify its resident-friendly infrastructure, offering you an engaging and active urban experience with a closer tie to the natural surroundings.
San Jose vs. Portland Weather Considerations
Moving between cities means adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison highlights the key weather differences between San Jose, CA, and Portland, OR , essential for your transition. Understanding these variances can significantly impact how you prepare for your relocation.
San Jose, CA
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Jose, CA
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Jose, CA
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Jose | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Floods, Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from San Jose to Portland, you'll notice significant changes in weather, especially in terms of sunshine and rainfall. San Jose enjoys more than 250 sunny days annually, nearly double that of Portland. However, Portland's cooler, more humid climate might be a welcome change for those who prefer cloudier skies and lush, green landscapes. Annual rainfall is much higher in Portland, supporting its vibrant ecosystem, but it also means you'll need to adapt your wardrobe and outdoor activities to accommodate more rainy days.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Jose to Portland
When planning a move from San Jose, CA to Portland, OR, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and overall financial landscape will change. This comparison aims to highlight those differences and help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | San Jose | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $126,377 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 156.1 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79 | 0.91 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Retail | Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Lower | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Understanding the financial dynamics between San Jose and Portland can greatly impact your decision-making process. While San Jose boasts a higher average household income, the cost of living there is significantly greater than in Portland. Additionally, despite Oregon's lack of sales tax, it compensates with relatively high state income and property taxes. The technology sector strongly influences both cities, though their affluence level and social issues such as poverty and homelessness vary, underscoring the importance of nuanced financial planning before making a move.
San Jose vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
In preparation for your move from San Jose, CA to Portland, OR, it's beneficial to get a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape you're heading into. This comparison provides a glance at the politics between San Jose & Portland and how religion plays into the community dynamics, helping you understand the social fabric of your new home.
| San Jose | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate, with a focus on tech and business development | Highly progressive, with a strong focus on environmental and social justice issues |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist communities More Info | Less religiously affiliated, with significant "nones" (those identifying with no religion), but active Christian and Buddhist communities More Info |
When moving from San Jose to Portland, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city with a diverse and moderate political landscape to one that's known for its progressive values and activism. While both cities lean Democratic, Portland is well-known for its advocacy in environmental and social justice issues, reflecting a community deeply engaged in local and national politics.
Religious diversity is present in both cities, but you'll notice a larger portion of Portland's population identifies with no religion, highlighting its secular nature. However, the presence of active religious communities in both cities offers a rich cultural tapeed.
San Jose vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Preparing for your move from San Jose, CA to Portland, OR? A key aspect of your transition involves understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Jose & Portland. This comparison will give you a better idea of what to expect for your daily commute and traffic encounters.
| Comparison | San Jose | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Manageable |
Moving from San Jose to Portland means adapting to a new rhythm of life, especially when it comes to your daily commute. In Portland, you'll find the city more navigable without a car compared to San Jose, thanks to its higher score in public transit availability and slightly less traffic congestion. While San Jose's transit system, VTA, provides considerable coverage, Portland's TriMet offers more frequent services and wider coverage, making it easier for residents to get around the city efficiently. This difference means that in Portland, you're more likely to enjoy quicker commutes and a more reliable public transportation system, making your transition smoother and potentially reducing your reliance on a vehicle.
Additional Resources
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