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 2,215 mile move from Illinois to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 53 Chicago 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 606 Movers, Inc.), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,000 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 | 9.33 | 9.57 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Chicago to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,215 miles from Chicago, IL to Portland, OR will cost on average $3,665 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Chicago to Portland move is roughly $8,849. 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 | $2,458 | 300 ft³ | 8.19 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,665 | 450 ft³ | 8.14 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,071 | 750 ft³ | 8.09 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $8,849 | 1100 ft³ | 8.04 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $12,791 | 1600 ft³ | 7.99 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $14,299 | 1800 ft³ | 7.94 |
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) |
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) |
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
When making the exciting move from Chicago, IL to Portland, OR, it can be immensely helpful to find a new neighborhood that feels like home. This guide aims to compare local neighborhoods between Chicago, IL & Portland, OR to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city using your existing knowledge of Chicago. Whether you're seeking vibrant arts scenes, lush green parks, or bustling markets, we've got you covered with this neighborhood comparison.
| Chicago | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Wicker Park | Alberta Arts District | arts-focused, lively nightlife |
| Lincoln Park | Nob Hill | upscale, with extensive park spaces |
| Hyde Park | Irvington | historic homes, academically rich |
| Loop | Downtown Portland | urban core, cultural hubs |
| Gold Coast | Pearl District | luxurious, with high-end shopping |
| Logan Square | Mississippi | hipster, with a bohemian vibe |
| River North | Old Town Chinatown | vibrant nightlife, arts scene |
| Andersonville | Sellwood | quirky, with a strong community feel |
| South Loop | Buckman | diverse, with a mix of arts and education |
| West Loop | East Portland | trendy dining, youthful energy |
For those drawn to the vibrant arts scene and lively nightlife of Wicker Park, the Alberta Arts District in Portland offers an engaging cultural experience with its burgeoning art galleries, festive street fairs, and cozy coffee shops. If you treasure the upscale ambiance and lush greenery of Lincoln Park, you'll feel right at home in Nob Hill, where you'll enjoy leisurely strolls through sprawling parks and high-end dining. Hyde Park residents accustomed to a mix of historic architecture and academic vibrance will find a similar atmosphere in Irvington, with its beautifully preserved homes and community-focused feel. Each Portland neighborhood mirrors its Chicago counterpart in unique ways, promising a seamless transition for those embarking on a new chapter in the Pacific Northwest.
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 Chicago to Portland
Moving from one place to another is a journey filled with anticipation and apprehension. With this comparison, our goal is to provide a balanced view, offering insight into what it may be like transitioning from Chicago, IL to Portland, OR . By juxtaposing the cons of departing Chicago against the pros of settling in Portland, and vice versa, we aim to illuminate the multifaceted nature of such a relocation.
Chicago, IL- Harsh winters
- High crime rates
- Higher living costs
- Dense urban living
Portland, OR- Milder winters
- Lower crime rates
- More affordable
- More green spaces
Portland, OR- Quieter nightlife
- Less public transit
- Fewer dining options
- Smaller cultural scene
Chicago, IL- Vibrant nightlife
- Extensive public transit
- Diverse dining options
- Rich cultural scene
Although both Chicago and Portland offer unique advantages, they cater to different lifestyles and preferences. Chicago's vibrant nightlife and extensive public transit system, including spots like Navy Pier and The Art Institute of Chicago, provide an energetic and convenient urban environment unparalleled in many respects. On the other hand, Portland's milder winters and abundance of green spaces, such as Washington Park and the iconic Portland Japanese Garden, appeal to those seeking a connection with nature and a more laid-back lifestyle. The transition from Chicago's dense, bustling streets to Portland's relaxed, eco-friendly vibe offers a profound shift in daily life, where each city's attributes can be best appreciated by those whose needs align with what each city offers.
Chicago vs. Portland Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Chicago & Portland highlights the food scene that awaits you. Food is a crucial part of understanding a city’s culture and life. Through this guide, you'll get a glimpse into what might land on your plate after moving.
| Chicago | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Deep Dish Pizza | Brunch |
| Most popular meat dish | Italian Beef | Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dog | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Seitan Wings | Tempeh Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, neighborhoods like the West Loop and Logan Square boast a vibrant food scene highlighting dishes such as Deep Dish Pizza from Lou Malnati's and innovative cuisine from Alinea. On the other hand, Portland, known for its sustainability and local ingredients, offers unique dining experiences featuring fresh Salmon and citywide renowned brunch spots like Screen Door. Portland's abundant food trucks, particularly those parked around neighborhoods like Hawthorne and Mississippi Ave, epitomize its dynamic street food scene, offering everything from gourmet tacos to vegan tempeh bowls.
Chicago vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering the food scene. For those moving from Chicago to Portland, this restaurant comparison chart serves as a guide to find your new favorite eateries, helping bridge the culinary gap between Chicago and Portland. Whether you’re craving high-end dining or a casual bite, this guide has you covered.
| Chicago | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Alinea | Le Pigeon | Both offer unique, upscale dining experiences with menus that push the envelope. |
| Portillo's | Lardo | Known for indulgent sandwiches and a laid-back vibe, similar to Portillo's. |
| Girl & The Goat | Tusk | Focuses on bold flavors in a lively atmosphere reminiscent of Girl & The Goat. |
| Lou Malnati's Pizzeria | Apizza Scholls | Offers top-notch pizzas with a dedication to quality ingredients, akin to Lou Malnati's. |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | Jake’s Famous Crawfish | Historic spots known for premium meat and seafood dishes. |
| The Purple Pig | Olympia Provisions | Similar approach to charcuterie and Mediterranean dishes. |
| Smoque BBQ | Matt’s BBQ | Both are fan favorites for authentic, mouthwatering barbecue. |
| Rick Bayless' Frontera Grill | Nuestra Cocina | Offers a dive into comprehensive Mexican cuisine with a homey feel comparable to Frontera Grill. |
| Chicago Diner | Harlow | Both excel in plant-based menus catered to the modern palate. |
| Gene & Jude's | Pok Pok | While not a hot dog joint, Pok Pok offers a deep dive into regional specialties that satisfy the craving for unique, affordable eats. |
Exploring Portland's food scene reveals an eclectic mix of establishments that mirror Chicago's diversity and culinary ambition. Le Pigeon, much like Alinea, transforms fine dining into an art form, focusing on local, seasonal produce to render dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. On the more casual end, Lardo's sandwich craftsmanship could remind one of Portillo’s in Chicago, known for its comfort food. Portland’s Apizza Scholls and Chicago’s Lou Malnati’s share a passion for the craft of pizza, employing high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques to create pies that stand out in their respective cities. These comparisons not only serve to ease the transition from Chicago to Portland but also highlight the vibrant, evolving culinary landscapes found in both cities.
Ready to start your move?
Chicago vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a crucial factor when considering a move. It's essential to compare the housing aspects between Chicago, IL and Portland, OR to understand how they match up against each other, ensuring you make an informed decision on where to call home.
| Comparison | Chicago | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and historical mix | Eclectic, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Nearby amenities, transport | Eco-friendly features, proximity to nature |
Despite a higher median home price in Portland at $507,000 compared to Chicago's $292,000, Portland boasts an appealing mix of urban lifestyle and proximity to nature, underpinned by its higher bikeability score of 8.2. This demonstrates Portland's commitment to sustainable living, often reflected in real estate listings that highlight eco-friendly features and access to green spaces. Chicago, while more affordable in terms of housing, offers a vibrant urban lifestyle with its mix of modern and historical architecture, alongside mentions of nearby amenities and transport links in its listings, catering to those who value convenience and urban living.
Chicago vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Chicago, IL to Portland, OR, understanding how the weather differs between these two cities is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the key weather differences and how they may impact your life when moving from Chicago to Portland. Knowing this will help you better prepare for the changes in your daily life and activities.
Chicago, IL
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Chicago, IL
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Chicago, IL
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Chicago | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Chicago to Portland, you'll find milder winters and cooler summers waiting for you. While Chicago battles blizzards and icy winters, Portland's winter temperature rarely dips below freezing, resulting in significantly less snowfall. However, Portland does see more rain annually, which contributes to its lush, green landscapes. It's important to prepare for the higher humidity and fewer sunny days in Portland, which could affect outdoor activities and your overall lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Chicago to Portland
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in money and finance between Chicago, IL and Portland, OR, providing insight into how your cost of living and other financial aspects may change.
| Comparison | Chicago | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $66,576 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.9 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4.95 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.10 | 1.04 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.25 | 0 (No sales tax) |
| Top 3 Industries | Finance, Manufacturing, Information Technology | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
While Portland boasts a higher average household income than Chicago, it also comes with a significantly higher cost of living, primarily due to housing costs. One notable financial advantage in Portland is the absence of sales tax, which can offset some of the higher living costs. However, Oregon's higher state income tax rate might negate this benefit, depending on your income bracket. Property taxes are substantially lower in Portland than in Chicago, aligning with Oregon's overall lower property tax rates. These financial factors are crucial to consider in preparing for your move and understanding how your financial landscape may shift.
Chicago vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
This guide offers a comparison of the politics between Chicago & Portland for those relocating from Chicago, IL to Portland, OR. Get a quick glimpse into the political and religious landscapes of your current and soon-to-be communities.
| Chicago | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Primarily Democratic | Primarily Democratic |
| Local Politics | Strong mayoral system, focus on urban policies | Commission-based government, progressive policies |
| Religion | Diverse, with Christianity being predominant | Less religiously affiliated, with a higher percentage of non-religious residents |
When moving from Chicago to Portland, you'll find both cities have a Democratic-leaning population, though the way they conduct local government and prioritize policies differs. Chicago operates under a strong mayoral system, focusing heavily on urban development and infrastructure. In contrast, Portland's commission-based government leads to a unique blend of progressive policies, often prioritizing environmental and social issues. Religion plays a different role in each city; while Chicago is quite diverse with a significant Christian population, Portland is known for its higher percentage of non-religious residents, reflecting the city's broader cultural openness and inclusivity.
Chicago vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Chicago, IL, to Portland, OR, brings with it numerous changes, including how you'll navigate daily life in these distinct urban landscapes. Understanding the *comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Chicago & Portland * is valuable for planning your daily commute and adjusting to a new pace of life.
| Comparison | Chicago | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, with some planning | Yes, more easily |
While Chicago boasts a robust public transit system, with the CTA offering extensive bus and train routes, Portland's TriMet service, which includes buses, light rail (MAX), and streetcars, is notable for providing convenient access even to more suburban neighborhoods. This distinction may ease the transition for those used to relying on a car. Furthermore, Portland's lower traffic congestion score suggests a less stressful commute, potentially saving you time and enhancing your quality of life. Whether you're walking, cycling, or making use of public transit, Portland's layout and infrastructure are more accommodating to a car-free lifestyle, an aspect to consider if you're looking to reduce your dependency on a personal vehicle.
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