Best Des Moines to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Des Moines to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,900 mile move from Iowa to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 28 Des Moines 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 Adamantine Spine Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $8,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Des Moines 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 Des Moines to Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adamantine Spine Moving | 9.53 | 9.4 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Best Move Inc | 9.23 | 9.19 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 5 | Hemmen Moving | 9.10 | 9.47 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Des Moines to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,900 miles from Des Moines, IA to Portland, OR will cost on average $3,397 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Des Moines to Portland move is roughly $8,194. 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 | $2,280 | 300 ft³ | 7.60 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,397 | 450 ft³ | 7.55 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,624 | 750 ft³ | 7.50 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,194 | 1100 ft³ | 7.45 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $11,838 | 1600 ft³ | 7.40 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $13,228 | 1800 ft³ | 7.35 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Des Moines guide.
Compare the 5 Best Des Moines to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Adamantine Spine Moving
2815 36th St
Des Moines, IA, 50310
About Adamantine Spine Moving
With multiple locations in Iowa, Adamantine Spine Moving has excellent coverage of the entire state with its reliable and convenient moving...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Apartment/Condo Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1471037 / 556716 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 37 |
| Registered Drivers | 40 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 393,823 (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) |
Best Move Inc
Burlington, IA, 52601
About Best Move Inc
Best Move, Inc. prides itself on being one of the most preferred and recommended moving companies in Fort Madison, IA. Its...
Services
- Material Packing
- Local Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 749231 / 376435 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,976 (2022) |
Hemmen Moving
1293 W Ave
Ames, IA, 50014
About Hemmen Moving
For over 25 years, Hemmen Moving has served the Ames area with full-service moving solutions. It provides services for residential and...
Services
- Local moving
- Long distance moving
- Small moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 608245 / 292343 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 604,536 (2023) |
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.
Des Moines vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move to an unfamiliar city, it helps to find a slice of home in your new environment. This guide aims to ease the transition by comparing local neighborhoods between Des Moines, IA & Portland, OR . Discover which Portland neighborhoods closely mirror your favorites in Des Moines, making your move a bit more like coming home.
| Des Moines | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Village | Pearl District | Chic, vibrant arts scene |
| Beaverdale | Sellwood | Family-friendly, historic homes |
| Waveland Park | Laurelhurst | Picturesque, with a central park |
| Drake | University Park | College town feel, diverse |
| Waterbury | Irvine Park | Affluent, spacious homes |
| Sherman Hill | King's Hill | Historic, with architectural gems |
| Highland Park | Foster-Powell | Up-and-coming, community oriented |
| South of Grand | Alameda | Upscale, with stately homes |
| Ingersoll Park | Mississippi Ave | Eclectic, lively shopping and dining |
| River Bend | South Waterfront | Modern, with river access |
For example, if you're drawn to the artistic and lively environment of Des Moines' East Village, you'll find a similar vibe in Portland's Pearl District, known for its art galleries, upscale boutiques, and lively bars. The historic charm of Beaverdale is mirrored in Sellwood-Moreland's family-friendly atmosphere and beautifully preserved homes, while the picturesque Waveland Park with its community activities and green spaces is akin to what you'll experience in Laurelhurst. Dining and shopping enthusiasts moving from Ingersoll Park will be delighted with Mississippi Ave's eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and independent shops, creating a vibrant yet hometown feel reminiscent of Ingersoll Park's own unique charm.
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 Des Moines to Portland
Relocating from one city to another is a significant life decision that requires careful consideration of various factors. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection on the pros and cons of moving from Des Moines, IA to Portland, OR, helping you make an informed decision about your big move. We’ve created charts to compare the drawbacks and benefits in a clear, concise manner, enabling you to weigh your options effectively.
Des Moines, IA- Less cultural diversity
- Harsher winters
- Smaller job market
- Fewer public transit options
- Limited dining variety
Portland, OR- Rich cultural diversity
- Milder winters
- Larger job market
- Extensive public transit
- Vast dining options
Portland, OR- Higher cost of living
- Big city feel
- More traffic
- Challenging navigation
- Less personal
Des Moines, IA- Lower cost of living
- Small-town feel
- Less traffic congestion
- Easy navigation
- Community-oriented
Moving from Des Moines, IA, to Portland, OR, introduces you to a dynamic environment teeming with cultural diversity and rich dining experiences. Portland is known for its bustling food scene, with spots like Pok Pok offering renowned Thai cuisine and Salt & Straw serving inventive ice cream flavors that have garnered national attention. The cultural tapestry of the city is vivid, showcased through institutions like the Portland Art Museum and indie music havens such as the Doug Fir Lounge. Despite the higher cost of living, many find the trade-off worth it for the access to natural beauty, with Forest Park offering an expansive urban wilderness ready to explore. While the transition may involve adjusting to a more significant, bustling urban environment, the opportunities for personal and professional growth in Portland are immense.
Des Moines vs. Portland Food Guide
When relocating, diving into the local food scene is a pivotal way to immerse yourself in a new culture. Food not only tantalizes the taste buds but also tells stories of heritage, tradition, and innovation. In this brief overview, we'll explore how the food experiences differ between your current and future homes by providing a comparison of the local cuisine between Des Moines and Portland. This will help you better understand the culinary landscapes awaiting you.
| Des Moines | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Pork Tenderloin Sandwich | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Iowa Pork Chop | Smoked Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Taco Trucks | Food Carts Serving Global Cuisine |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Plant-Based Bowls |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In moving to Portland, you're transitioning to a city renowned for its innovative and eclectic food scene, significantly shaped by an impressive array of food carts dotting almost every neighborhood. Here, you can stroll through areas like the Alberta Arts District or downtown's Pioneer Courthouse Square, and find everything from authentic Thai at Pok Pok to artisanal ice cream at Salt & Straw. Portland's approach to food reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, with a remarkable selection of plant-based options available city-wide. This vibrant culinary landscape, complemented by a high health consciousness among its residents, makes Portland a haven for foodies and health enthusiasts alike.
Des Moines vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Understanding that food plays a pivotal role in making a location feel like home, this guide aims to bridge the culinary gap for those relocating. Through this restaurant comparison, you'll discover your next favorite dining spots in Portland, using your familiar favorites in Des Moines to Portland as your culinary compass.
| Des Moines | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Centro | Ava Gene's | Both offer upscale, Italian cuisine with a focus on high-quality, fresh ingredients. |
| Zombie Burger + Drink Lab | Grassa | Grassa crafts inventive and memorable burgers, paralleling Zombie Burger's creative approach. |
| Fong's Pizza | Apizza Scholls | Both specialize in unique pizza experiences, celebrating unconventional toppings and combinations. |
| Jethro’s BBQ | Pok Pok | While specializing in different cuisines, both restaurants focus on bold flavors and are iconic in their respective cities. |
| Aroi Thai | Nong's Khao Man Gai | Offering authentic, heartwarming Thai dishes, both restaurants boast a dedicated local fanbase. |
| Harbinger | Le Pigeon | Each restaurant is lauded for innovative dishes and a vibrant, foodie-centric atmosphere. |
| Machine Shed Restaurant | The Country Cat | Both offer a farm-to-table experience, showcasing the best of American comfort food. |
| 801 Chophouse | Ringside Steakhouse | Luxurious settings and high-end steak offerings make both spots a must-visit for meat lovers. |
| Tacos Mariana's | ¿Por Qué No? | Both are celebrated for their authentic tacos and vibrant atmosphere, capturing the essence of traditional Mexican cuisine. |
| Exile Brewing Co. | Breakside Brewery | Both places are not just about excellent craft beer but also about creating a community around their unique food offerings. |
For those who consider dining an essential part of their lifestyle, moving cities doesn't have to mean leaving behind the culinary experiences you've grown to love. Portland offers an array of counterparts to Des Moines’ favorite spots that promise not just a similar menu, but a comparable ambiance and food philosophy. For instance, fans of Fong's Pizza will delight in the offerings at Apizza Scholls, where the dedication to crafting unconventional pizzas mirrors your Des Moines favorite. Meanwhile, the barbecue enthusiasts missing Jethro’s BBQ’s bold flavors can find solace in Pok Pok’s adventurous Southeast Asian fare, proving that the spirit of culinary exploration knows no bounds. This guide aims to make your transition smoother by ensuring that the flavors you love are never too far away.
Ready to start your move?
Des Moines vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing the real estate landscape between your current and future cities is crucial. How does Des Moines, IA stack up against Portland, OR in terms of housing ? This side-by-side look will provide insight into everything from costs to lifestyle, helping you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch and Craftsman | Craftsman and Modern |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, proximity to schools | Eco-friendly upgrades, access to public transportation |
In delving deeper into the housing contrasts, Des Moines offers more affordability in terms of median home prices and rent. However, what you save in costs, you might spend on transportation, given its lower walkability and bikeability scores compared to Portland. Portland’s housing market emphasizes eco-friendly features and better access to public transportation, mirroring its high urban lifestyle score. The differing architectural styles highlight the unique character of each city; Des Moines with its practical Ranch and Craftsman homes versus Portland’s blend of Craftsman tradition and Modern innovation. This juxtaposition not only reflects on the housing market but also on the lifestyle you can expect in each city.
Des Moines vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When moving from one location to another, understanding how the weather compares is essential. This guide will help you grasp the climate differences you'll experience moving from Des Moines, IA, to Portland, OR, crucial for preparing your relocation and wardrobe adjustments.
Des Moines, IA
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Des Moines, IA
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Des Moines, IA
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Des Moines | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Blizzards | Earthquakes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In comparing the climates between Des Moines and Portland, the most notable difference lies in the winter temperatures and snowfall. Des Moines experiences much colder winters with significant snow, while Portland's winters are milder and less prone to snow, making it conducive for those who prefer less disruptive winter conditions. Moreover, Portland has more annual rainfall but fewer days of sunshine, which could affect your outdoor activities differently than in Des Moines. It's important to consider these climate differences as you plan your move, particularly in how it will affect your daily life and recreational activities.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Des Moines to Portland
When considering a move from one city to another, it's vital to understand how the cost of living and financial aspects compare between Des Moines, IA, and Portland, OR. This comparison will help you adjust your budget and expectations accordingly.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $60,693 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.9 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 8.98% | Up to 9.9% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.5% | 1.07% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 0% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Insurance, Manufacturing | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Medium |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Moving from Des Moines to Portland means preparing for a higher cost of living, especially considering Portland's index stands at 130 against Des Moines' more modest 81. Despite the higher household income in Portland, this increase is offset by the city's more significant expenses. Oregon's lack of sales tax contrasts with Des Moines' 6%, which might provide some reprieve, however. Understanding these differences will be key in adapting financially to your new home.
Des Moines vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
Welcome to a quick glimpse comparing the political and religious landscapes of Des Moines, IA, and Portland, OR. This brief overview aims to provide you with a snapshot of the politics and religious makeup of Des Moines & Portland ; two cities you might call home. Let's dive into how these communities compare.
| Des Moines | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderately liberal | Very liberal |
| Local Politics | Democratic-leaning in federal elections | Strongly Democratic in local and federal elections |
| Religion | Mixture of Protestant and Catholic with growing non-religious population | Largely non-religious, significant spiritual but not religious community |
Moving from Des Moines to Portland, you're transitioning from a city with a moderately liberal lean to one known for its very liberal stance, particularly noticeable in local and federal political actions. Des Moines, while Democratic-leaning, has a somewhat more diverse political atmosphere, especially when compared with Portland's strongly Democratic orientation. On the religious front, Des Moines hosts a more traditional religious makeup, with a balance of Protestant and Catholic communities. In contrast, Portland stands out with its significant non-religious population, reflecting a broader trend towards spiritual but not traditionally religious views. Understanding these dynamics can help you adjust to the social fabric of your new home.
Des Moines vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can be a big adjustment, especially when it comes to navigating daily commutes and understanding local traffic conditions. To help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, we're providing a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Des Moines & Portland. This will give you a clearer picture of what to expect and how to prepare for your move.
| Comparison | Des Moines | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20.8 | 25.3 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Yes, with some planning |
When comparing the daily commute between Des Moines and Portland, you'll notice significant differences that could impact your lifestyle. In Des Moines, the average commute time is slightly shorter and traffic congestion is lower. Public transit options are not as robust as in Portland, making it more challenging to get by without owning a car. In contrast, Portland offers more extensive public transit solutions, thanks to services like TriMet with its buses, light rail, and streetcars, making it easier to navigate the city without a vehicle. Understanding these nuances will help you plan more effectively for your move and daily life in your new city.
Additional Resources
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