Best Chicago to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Chicago to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,069 mile move from Illinois to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 42 Chicago 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 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $6,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Chicago 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 Chicago to Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | 9.27 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 9.37 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | A1 Movers, Inc | 9.32 | 9.57 | 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 Chicago to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,069 miles from Chicago, IL to Portland, ME will cost on average $2,690 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Portland move is roughly $6,466. 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 | $1,809 | 300 ft³ | 6.03 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,690 | 450 ft³ | 5.98 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,446 | 750 ft³ | 5.93 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,466 | 1100 ft³ | 5.88 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $9,325 | 1600 ft³ | 5.83 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,401 | 1800 ft³ | 5.78 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Chicago guide.
Compare the 5 Best Chicago to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
606 Movers, Inc.
159 N Sangamon St Suite 300
Chicago, IL, 60607
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly moving...
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3476069 / 1139300 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1 (2021) |
Move-tastic!
3100 N Tripp Ave
Chicago, IL, 60641
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving...
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1906350 / 675927 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 15 |
| Registered Drivers | 28 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,866 (2023) |
A1 Movers, Inc
315 S Harrison St
Geneva, IL, 60134
About A1 Movers, Inc
A1 Movers, Inc. is a leading moving company in the Aurora, IL area providing residential moving services. This Aurora moving company...
Services
- LOCAL MOVES
- LONG DISTANCE MOVES
- PACKING SERVICES
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3309154 / 1055273 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,800 (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) |
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.
Chicago vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
If you're considering a move from one city to another, understanding neighborhood dynamics can ease the transition. Here, we compare local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Portland, ME to help you find familiar vibes in new surroundings.
| Chicago | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | West End | Vibrant atmosphere, parks |
| Wicker Park | Munjoy Hill | Artsy, trendy vibes |
| Gold Coast | Old Port | Upscale, historic charm |
| Lakeview | East End | Family-friendly, community parks |
| Logan Square | Bayside | Eclectic, hip with breweries |
| The Loop | Downtown Portland | Business hub, bustling |
| Hyde Park | Deering Center | Academic, cultural diversity |
| River North | Arts District | Galleries, dining scene |
| Andersonville | Woodford's Corner | LGBTQ+ friendly, artsy |
| Ukrainian Village | Parkside | Community, historic features |
As you explore Portland, you’ll find the artsy and trendy vibe of Munjoy Hill aligns well with what you love about Wicker Park, with its local art galleries and charming streetscapes. The historic charm of Old Port offers an upscale atmosphere reminiscent of Gold Coast, where cobblestone streets meet hip boutiques and gourmet restaurants. If community parks and family-friendly environments are important to you, you’ll enjoy the essence of Lakeview in Portland's East End, accentuated by Back Cove and Eastern Promenade with their stunning waterfront views. Dive into the vibrant energy of the West End, comparable to Lincoln Park, which is bustling with activities and lush green spaces like Victoria Mansion.
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 Chicago to Portland
Relocating from Chicago, IL to Portland, ME presents an opportunity for an honest reflection of the benefits and drawbacks. This guide gives a clear comparison of both cities, helping you understand the pros and cons involved in your move from Chicago to Portland.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- Heavy traffic
- Higher crime rates
- Expensive living cost
- Limited natural landscapes
Portland, ME- Milder winters
- Less congestion
- Safer neighborhoods
- More affordable housing
- Proximity to beaches
Portland, ME- Fewer cultural events
- Quieter atmosphere
- Limited restaurant variety
- Smaller job market
- Limited public transport
Chicago, IL- World-class museums
- Vibrant nightlife
- Diverse dining options
- Strong job market
- Larger public transit
Chicago presents a rich cultural scene with institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago and landmarks such as Millennium Park. You might find fewer cultural events in Portland, but the natural landscapes make up for it, offering stunning spots like Eastern Promenade and Bug Light Park. While Chicago's vibrant nightlife is attractive, Portland's quieter atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for cozy evenings at local favorites such as Old Port or Maine Brew Bus tours. The restaurant scene in Chicago is undeniably diverse, yet Portland offers its own charm with fresh seafood eateries like Eventide Oyster Co. While both cities have their unique offers, Portland's safer and less congested neighborhoods provide a different pace of life that may appeal to those seeking a change.
Chicago vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is an essential facet of local culture, reflecting the unique flavor and lifestyle of an area. Comparing the local cuisine between Chicago & Portland allows you to better understand the dining landscape as you plan your move.
| Chicago | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular street food item | Chicago-Style Hot Dog | Food Truck Sandwiches |
| Most popular vegan food | Stuffed Portobello | Tofu Pad Thai |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Portland is renowned for its vibrant food truck scene and the abundance of seafood restaurants, offering delights like Lobster Rolls in neighborhoods such as Old Port. You can frequently spot food trucks lining the streets, providing eclectic options from ethnic foods to innovative vegan delicacies like Tofu Pad Thai. Meanwhile, the foodie culture in the city is evident in restaurants like Eventide Oyster Co. where you can experience fresh local flavors. Unlike Chicago's hearty offerings, Portland tends to lean towards the health-conscious side, with more vegan-friendly options available.
Chicago vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite place to eat is crucial for making an unfamiliar area feel like home. This comparison between Chicago and Portland's top restaurants aims to guide you in discovering places that echo the culinary joys of your current hometown in your exciting new destination.
| Chicago | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Fore Street | Both offer high-end, innovative dining experiences that showcase seasonal ingredients. |
| Girl & the Goat | Eventide Oyster Co. | Known for creative, shareable plates and a dynamic atmosphere. |
| Pizzeria Bebu | Flatbread Company | Known for their artisanal pizzas made with local ingredients. |
| The Publican | Duckfat | Both offer gastropub vibes with a focus on superb quality, locally-sourced ingredients. |
| Portillo's | Becky's Diner | Classic, affordable, and beloved by locals for hearty comfort food. |
| Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Otto | Offers a variety of well-crafted pizzas with creative toppings. |
| Au Cheval | Little Giant | Renowned for its inventive and robust approach to classic American dishes. |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | J's Oyster | A seafood-centric dining experience with fresh catches and a laid-back nautical theme. |
| Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! | Central Provisions | Offers a vibrant tapas-style dining experience with exquisite small plates. |
| Parachute | Hot Suppa | Celebrated for its unique fusion of flavors, bringing comfort staples to a new level. |
When seeking a dining experience that reflects Chicago's high-end style and seasonal focus, Fore Street in Portland is comparable to Chicago's Alinea, both renowned for their sophisticated, ever-evolving menus. If you're fond of Chicago's Au Cheval for its hearty takes on classic American fare, Little Giant offers a cozy ambiance with a similarly creative approach in Portland. Meanwhile, those craving Joe's Seafood, with its premium ocean delicacies, will find comfort at J's Oyster, where seafood lovers revel in fresh catches and nautical charm. As you transition your culinary adventures from the Windy City to Portland, these thoughtfully chosen eateries ensure you savor familiar tastes with a local twist.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to know how the housing in Chicago, IL compares to Portland, ME in terms of costs, lifestyle, and architectural styles. This comparison will guide you in making an informed decision.
| Comparison | Chicago | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Bungalows | Colonial, Cape Cod |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Hardwood floors, Open kitchen | Water views, Stone fireplaces |
Housing in Chicago offers a vibrant urban atmosphere with excellent walkability, making it ideal for those who enjoy being at the heart of city life. Its median rent is slightly higher than in Portland, but you gain access to a bustling social scene. Chicago’s architecture is unique, featuring charming Victorian and Bungalow styles, which can commonly be found in neighborhoods like Lincoln Park. In Portland, however, you can find homes featuring colonial and Cape Cod styles, offering a more laid-back yet picturesque ambiance. Properties here often highlight water views and cozy stone fireplaces, forming a unique part of the city’s real estate charm.
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.
Chicago vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When moving from Chicago to Portland , it’s crucial to understand the weather differences between these cities. Knowing the climate variations can help you prepare for your new environment and adapt your lifestyle and wardrobe accordingly. Use this guide to familiarize yourself with what to expect from these different climates .
Chicago, IL
Portland, ME
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Portland, ME
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Portland, ME
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Portland, ME
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Tornadoes | Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from Chicago to Portland, you'll notice a shift in the climate patterns. Portland experiences more annual rainfall than Chicago, which results in its lush green landscapes. However, with more average sunshine days annually, you can still enjoy a fair amount of sun in Portland. Differences in air quality are also notable, as Portland typically enjoys better air quality compared to Chicago, offering a fresh breath in your daily life. While Chicago is more prone to tornadoes, Portland's weather conditions include challenges like nor'easters during winter months. These factors might influence how you decide to manage your outdoor activities in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Portland
If you're planning to move from Chicago, IL to Portland, ME , understanding the financial landscape and costs associated with each city is essential. This comparison will provide insights into key financial indicators, helping you budget effectively and anticipate changes in your lifestyle expenses.
| Comparison | Chicago | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $70,244 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 116.5 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95% | 7.15% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.27% | 1.30% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25% | 5.50% |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Retail, Healthcare, Education |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Notable |
When moving from Chicago to Portland, it's important to note the differences in state tax structures, with Portland having a higher state income tax but lower property and sales taxes. Although the average household income is lower in Portland, you might find that the overall burden of living costs is offset by less expensive housing, thanks to lower property taxes. The industry landscape also shifts, with Portland focusing more on retail, healthcare, and education, which may offer different employment opportunities than Chicago's more finance-driven economy.
Chicago vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Chicago, IL to Portland, ME? Here's a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the _political and religious makeup_ of the residents you'll encounter, comparing Chicago & Portland .
| Chicago | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | More liberal | Progressive-leaning |
| Local Politics | Democratically controlled | Dominated by local City Council |
| Religion | Diverse religious communities | Predominantly secular |
When moving to Portland, ME, you'll find the city's political landscape leans progressively, similar to Chicago, though it’s often represented through intimate local governance like the influential City Council. Chicago boasts a richly diverse religious community, reflecting its vibrant cultural landscape, while Portland tends towards a more secular vibe. As you settle in, check out Portland’s local council meetings to understand how community-focused local governance impacts daily life here.
Chicago vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
When preparing to move from the bustling metropolis of Chicago, IL to the picturesque coastal city of Portland, ME, it’s vital to understand the differences in daily commuting and traffic. This guide provides a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Portland , helping you adjust to your new environment with ease.
| Comparison | Chicago | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No, but possible with public transit | Yes, more feasible |
Chicago is known for its robust public transit system, which includes the iconic "L" train and extensive bus routes, making it relatively easy to commute without a car. However, you’ll find that traffic congestion can be quite high, often leading to longer commute times. In contrast, Portland tends to have lighter traffic, which reduces overall travel time despite having fewer public transit options. You might even find that walking or biking in Portland is more feasible than in Chicago, thanks to its smaller city size and pedestrian-friendly streets. This makes Portland a great choice for those looking to maintain a more car-free lifestyle.
Additional Resources
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