Best Boston to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Boston to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 108 mile move from Massachusetts to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 60 Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $1,000 - $4,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Boston 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 Boston to Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | 9.55 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | SC Moving Services | 9.19 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Boston to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 108 miles from Boston, MA to Portland, ME will cost on average $1,592 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Boston to Portland move is roughly $3,798. 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 | $1,074 | 300 ft³ | 3.58 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,592 | 450 ft³ | 3.54 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,622 | 750 ft³ | 3.50 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,798 | 1100 ft³ | 3.45 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $5,457 | 1600 ft³ | 3.41 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $6,062 | 1800 ft³ | 3.37 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Boston guide.
Compare the 5 Best Boston to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2022) |
Intelligent labor & Moving
18 Beck Rd
Arlington, MA, 2476
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communities...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2065664 / 725481 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 8 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 43,583 (2023) |
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.
Boston vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Looking to move from Boston, MA to Portland, ME? By comparing various neighborhoods, you'll be able to better understand the local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Portland, ME and feel more at home. Discover the closest matches to your current surroundings and embrace the unique qualities your new city has to offer.
| Boston | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Back Bay | West End | Elegant architecture, vibrant shopping |
| North End | Old Port | Historic charm, condensed mix of eateries |
| South End | East Bayside | Eclectic dining, creative atmosphere |
| Beacon Hill | Munjoy Hill | Charming streets, historic feel |
| Jamaica Plain | Deering Center | Green spaces, community vibe |
| Fenway | Parkside | Nearby sports venues, lively activity |
| Seaport District | Bayside | Waterfront views, modern living |
| Cambridge | University District | Academic presence, youthful energy |
If you enjoy the refined architecture and vibrant shopping of Boston's Back Bay, you'll find the West End of Portland offers a similar experience, boasting elegant 19th-century homes and trendy boutiques. The bustling North End, known for its rich Italian heritage and delicious eateries, has its Portland counterpart in the Old Port district, where cobblestone streets are lined with cozy cafes and seafood restaurants. For those fond of the diverse culinary scene and art space found in Boston's South End, Portland's East Bayside neighborhood, with its innovative breweries and vibrant murals, promises to delight. As a lover of historic charm, you'll appreciate Munjoy Hill's quaint avenues and sweeping views, reminiscent of Beacon Hill's timeless allure. When it comes to academic pursuits and a youthful vibe, Portland's University District mirrors the energy of Cambridge, providing a vibrant community of scholars and learners.
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 Boston to Portland
Making the decision to relocate involves weighing all the factors of your current city against your future home. This comparison offers an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes between Boston, MA and Portland, ME , helping you consider both the exciting opportunities and potential challenges of such a move.
Boston, MA- High cost of living
- Heavy traffic congestion
- Dense population
- Expensive parking
Portland, ME- More affordable housing
- Less traffic
- Quieter environment
- Cheaper parking alternatives
Portland, ME- Fewer job prospects
- Less diverse culture
- Lacking public transit options
- Fewer educational options
Boston, MA- Abundant job opportunities
- Diverse cultural events
- Well-connected public transit
- Prestigious universities
In Boston, you might enjoy the wealth of job opportunities and cultural events, but deal with the high cost of living and traffic congestion. Moving to Portland offers the charm of a quieter environment with more affordable housing. You'll find a slower pace of life and delightful spots like Old Port and local eateries. While there may be fewer job prospects and less diverse culture, places like Deering Oaks or Portland Museum promise enjoyable leisure activities, adding value to your lifestyle.
Boston vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is a vital part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll compare the local cuisine between Boston & Portland to ensure you're well-informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Boston | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Boston Roast Beef | BBQ Ribs |
| Most popular street food item | Fenway Frank | Poutine |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Pizza | Sautéed Tofu Bowl |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants |
| |
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, you can savor iconic lobster rolls in neighborhoods like the Old Port, known for its vibrant dining options. The city's food truck scene outshines that of Boston, offering a diverse range of convenient eats. If vegan cuisine entices you, heads over to Portland's Eventide Oyster Co., renowned not just for its seafood but also for inventive vegan dishes. The overall foodie scene in Portland is robust and thriving, ensuring you have delectable experiences around every corner.
Boston vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Food is a crucial part of making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Boston and Portland will help you find your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide.
| Boston | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Oleana | Tao Yuan | Offers innovative, Eastern Mediterranean flavors |
| Neptune Oyster | Eventide Oyster Co. | Celebrated for its fresh and local seafood |
| Legal Sea Foods | Street & Co. | Specializes in high-quality seafood dishes |
| Myers + Chang | Teri-Miura | Known for its Asian-fusion culinary experience |
| Five Horse Tavern | The Great Lost Bear | Offers a diverse menu with a focus on local brews |
| Union Oyster House | J's Oyster | Offers a historic feel with traditional seafood options |
| Café Sushi | Miyake | Highlights high-end sushi and Japanese cuisine |
| The Friendly Toast | Hot Suppa | Serves an eclectic mix of comfort foods |
| No. 9 Park | Fore Street | Famed for its elegant European-inspired dining |
| Mike's Pastry | Two Fat Cats | Known for its sweet treats and authentic bakery vibes |
As you explore Portland's dining scene, you'll find gems that resonate with Boston's beloved restaurants. Look no further than Eventide Oyster Co. for that iconic seafood experience akin to Boston's Neptune Oyster, offering fresh, local oysters and a coastal allure right in the heart of Maine. If Asian-fusion is more your pace, Tao Yuan in Brunswick mirrors Oleana’s inventive Eastern Mediterranean flavors, bringing a unique twist to traditional fares. For those who enjoy a mix of comfort foods, complete with a cozy ambiance, Hot Suppa in Portland presents a delightful menu reminiscent of The Friendly Toast’s eclectic offerings, all contributing to the vibrant culinary landscape that awaits you in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most critical considerations during a relocation. Understanding how Boston and Portland differ in terms of housing can help you make a more informed decision. This comparison covers aspects like cost, architecture, and lifestyle to offer you a well-rounded perspective on these two cities.
| Comparison | Boston | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Brownstones | Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to Boston Public Market | Waterfront views |
When considering a move to Portland, you'll notice a significant difference in the median home price compared to Boston, allowing for potentially more affordable home ownership. While Boston is famous for its historic brownstone buildings, Portland offers charming Victorian architecture that speaks to its quaint and scenic vibe. In terms of lifestyle, Boston's vibrant urban setting is highlighted by its proximity to hubs like the Boston Public Market, offering a lively urban experience. Though Portland may rank slightly lower on the urban lifestyle scale, its higher walkability and bikeability scores make it an enticing option for those looking for a commuter-friendly environment in a stunning coastal setting.
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.
Boston vs. Portland Weather Considerations
If you're moving from one place to another, understanding the weather can help you prepare for the changes ahead. A move from Boston to Portland brings with it some variations in climate that you should be aware of to adjust accordingly to your new environment.
Boston, MA
Portland, ME
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Portland, ME
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Portland, ME
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Portland, ME
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | occasional storms | occasional storms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
You may notice that Portland experiences cooler summers and slightly colder winters compared to Boston. The humidity is a tad higher in Portland, which might make the summers feel more muggy despite the lower temperatures. Portland also receives more snowfall and rainfall annually, which might mean more preparation for wet and snowy conditions. While both cities enjoy relatively good air quality, Portland has fewer sunny days annually, which can impact your vitamin D intake and mood. Understanding these nuances can help you settle comfortably into your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Portland
If you're considering a move from Boston, MA to Portland, ME , understanding the differences in the cost of living is crucial. By examining key financial and economic factors, you can better prepare for your new life in Portland and manage your financial expectations accordingly.
| Comparison | Boston | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $70,244 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 116.5 |
| State Income Tax | 5.0% | 5.8% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.2% | 1.3% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25% | 5.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Healthcare, Tourism, Fishing |
| Affluence | Wealthy | Comfortable |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Visible | Low |
While Boston's average household income is notably higher, Portland offers a more affordable cost of living, which may appeal to those seeking financial ease. You'll also find that Boston's state income tax is slightly lower than Portland's, potentially offering financial benefits for higher earners. Both cities have strong economies, but Portland's top industries are more aligned with its charming coastal setting, such as tourism and fishing, providing unique job opportunities. Additionally, Portland demonstrates lower poverty and homelessness rates, which may contribute to a more community-focused lifestyle.
Boston vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
Get a quick look at the unique political and religious atmosphere that you will experience moving from one city to another. Here, we compare the politics between Boston & Portland to help you understand the social dynamics of your new home.
| Boston | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Predominantly Liberal | Leans Liberal |
| Local Politics | Strong Democratic influence | Active Democratic presence |
| Religion | Catholic majority | Diverse Christian communities |
When moving from Boston to Portland, you'll notice that both cities share a liberal bent, though the scale and nature of their political landscapes vary. Boston's strong Democratic presence often results in highly dynamic local politics, with a focus on progressive urban issues. In Portland, while the general political mood also leans liberal, it is characterized by a more intimate and community-oriented approach. Religiously, Boston has a large Catholic community, while Portland offers a wider variety of Christian denominations, thanks to its smaller and more close-knit community. This varying mix creates a different pace and style of civic life as you settle into Portland.
Boston vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Planning a move from bustling Boston, MA to charming Portland, ME? Understanding the traffic and transportation options between Boston & Portland can help you better anticipate your daily commute and navigate your new city. Here’s a comparison to ease your transition and prepare you for what to expect.
| Comparison | Boston | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 19 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Possible but challenging |
While Boston offers an extensive public transit system like the MBTA, Portland's network is more limited, though still manageable with services like the Greater Portland Metro. Boston’s higher traffic congestion often results in longer commute times, pushing many to rely on transit options, whereas Portland’s lower congestion can make driving a more viable option. In Boston, you can comfortably live without a car, thanks to a robust transit network. However, in Portland, owning a vehicle may provide more convenience, especially if you plan to explore the scenic areas beyond the city.
Additional Resources
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