Best Portland to Anchorage Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Anchorage and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 4,506 mile move from Maine to Alaska go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 13 Portland to Anchorage 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 You Move Me Portland), how much the move costs (depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland compared to Anchorage. 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 Portland to Anchorage Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | SC Moving Services | 9.19 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
| 3 | Vacationland Moving | 9.03 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | The Moving Man | 7.80 | 8.91 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Air Van Moving | 6.80 | 6.98 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Anchorage to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Anchorage Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
Vacationland Moving
This listing has been claimed by Vacationland Moving1484 Maine St Apt 1
Poland, ME, 04274
About Vacationland Moving
Vacationland Moving is a relocation specialist company based in Portland, Maine. Their services, which are considered some of the finest moving...
Services
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Packing & Unpacking Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3540196 / 1181718 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2024) |
The Moving Man
550 W 54th Ave
Anchorage, AK, 99518
About The Moving Man
The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...
Services
- Local Residential Moving
- Local Commercial Moving
- Out-of-State Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 807379 / 359080 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 55,000 (2018) |
Air Van Moving
209 Post Rd
Anchorage, AK, 99501
About Air Van Moving
Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 125012 / 118474 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (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.
Portland vs. Anchorage Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, but comparing local neighborhoods between Portland, ME & Anchorage, AK will help you gain a sense of familiarity. By establishing parallels, you'll find comfort in recognizing similar vibes and amenities to what you're accustomed to.
| Portland | Anchorage | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Portland | Downtown Anchorage | Vibrant arts and dining scene |
| Old Port | The Anchorage Depot Area | Historic charm and lively waterfront |
| West End | Turnagain | Residential area with classic homes and parks |
| East End | South Addition | Diverse and culturally rich environment |
| Munjoy Hill | Government Hill | Elevated views and community feel |
| Rosemont | Airport Heights | Family-friendly with neighborhood parks |
| Deering Center | Sand Lake | Quiet, suburban lifestyle |
| Nasons Corner | Northeast Anchorage | Residential neighborhood on the city's edge |
| North Deering | Bayshore/Klatt | Suburb with residential tranquility |
| Libbytown | Russian Jack Park | Access to outdoor spaces and trails |
If you are drawn to the vibrant arts and dining scenes of Downtown Portland, you'll find Downtown Anchorage equally stimulating, with a range of local eateries and the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. For those accustomed to the historic charm and lively waterfront of Portland's Old Port, The Anchorage Depot Area offers a similar vibe with its unique shops and the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail. Meanwhile, if the classic homes and green spaces like the Western Promenade Park in the West End speak to you, the residential neighborhood of Turnagain with its parks such as Earthquake Park parallels this charm.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Anchorage
When considering a move from Portland, ME to Anchorage, AK, it's important to assess both cities honestly. These charts highlight the pros and cons of leaving Portland and making Anchorage your new home, helping you understand what this transition means for your lifestyle and preferences.
Portland, ME- Chilly winters
- Limited job market
- High cost of living
- Less cultural diversity
Anchorage, AK- Breathtaking landscapes
- Abundant outdoor activities
- Lower housing costs
- Rich native culture
Anchorage, AK- Long, harsh winters
- Isolation from major cities
- Limited dining options
- Requires more driving
Portland, ME- Coastal charm
- Historical sights
- Local seafood cuisine
- Walkable city layout
Life in Anchorage offers some distinct opportunities compared to Portland. While summers might be cooler, the stunning natural beauty, like at Denali National Park, adds an unparalleled backdrop to your everyday. Anchorage offers locals a wealth of outdoor activities, including skiing at Alyeska Resort or hiking the Flattop Mountain Trail. Though the winters can be harsh, the lower housing costs and the vibrant native culture represented at places such as the Alaska Native Heritage Center provide a unique and fulfilling lifestyle. However, you'll rely more on a car given the city's sprawl, unlike the walkable streets of Portland. Dining might not be as diverse as Portland's famed seafood, but Anchorage still offers memorable spots like the Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria.
Portland vs. Anchorage Food Guide
Food is an essential element of local culture, influencing what life is like in diverse regions. This comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Anchorage helps you understand what to anticipate in your new surroundings, especially if you're moving across the country from the East Coast to the vast, scenic lands of Alaska.
| Portland | Anchorage | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Lobster Roll | Reindeer Sausage |
| Most popular meat dish | Clam Chowder | Alaskan King Crab |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Salmon Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Portobello Burger | Falafel Wrap |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Anchorage offers a unique palate that you may find quite different from Portland's, extensively highlighting its Alaskan roots. For instance, while Portland is famous for its lobster roll, you can relish the distinctive taste of reindeer sausage in Anchorage, widely available at stands around Town Square Park. Seafood lovers will not be disappointed; the Alaskan King Crab graces many a menu in restaurants such as the Glacier Brewhouse in the heart of Anchorage. While Portland has a bustling food truck scene particularly in the Old Port District, Anchorage's street food culture takes on a more condensed form, offering fresh and hearty options like salmon tacos. Whether you end up dining at local favorites like Moose's Tooth, known for its creative pizza options, or exploring the vegan spots in neighborhoods like Spenard, Anchorage provides a flavorful introduction to the Alaskan lifestyle.
Portland vs. Anchorage Restaurant Comparison
Food is important for making an area home. This restaurant comparison will help someone find their new favorite eateries by using their current hometown as a guide. Whether you're moving from Portland, ME to Anchorage, AK, seek comfort in discovering comparable dining experiences in your new city.
| Portland | Anchorage | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Fore Street | Crow's Nest | Both feature creative, farm-to-table cuisine |
| Eventide Oyster Co. | Glacier BrewHouse | Celebrated for fresh seafood offerings |
| Central Provisions | Marx Bros Cafe | Known for eclectic, shared plates and tapas |
| Portland Lobster Company | Tracy's King Crab Shack | Both spotlight regional seafood in simple settings |
| Duckfat | Snow City Cafe | Casual, comfort-food atmosphere with unique twists |
| Street & Co. | Simon & Seaforts | Elevated seafood dining experiences |
| Flatbread Company Portland | Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria | Celebrated for wood-fired pizzas and vibrant ambiance |
| Novare Res Bier Café | 49th State Brewing Co. | Renowned for extensive beer selections |
| The Holy Donut | Sweet Caribou | Unique pastries that capture local flavors |
| The Green Elephant | Organic Oasis | Vegetarian-focused and health-conscious meals |
When seeking a touch of Portland's culinary excellence in Anchorage, you'll find comparable establishments that echo the essence of your favorite hometown spots. For seafood aficionados, head to Glacier BrewHouse, where the freshness of the ocean is as celebrated as it is at Eventide Oyster Co. Meanwhile, those missing Portland's innovative flair in shared plates at Central Provisions will discover a kindred spirit at the Marx Bros Cafe. Both eateries offer a dynamic mix of flavors and presentation styles. Finally, pizza lovers should make their way to Moose's Tooth Pub & Pizzeria in Anchorage to indulge in vibrant and creative pizza offerings reminiscent of Flatbread Company Portland.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Anchorage Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Portland and Anchorage compare in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, and neighborhood dynamics. This guide will provide you with a clear comparison to make your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Portland | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial Revival | Ranch-style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Waterfront views, [Historic Homes](https://www.portlandlandmarks.org/) | [Mountain Views](https://www.alaska.org/destination/anchorage), Open Space |
When you move from Portland to Anchorage, you might notice a shift in architectural styles. Portland's charming colonial revival homes set the streetscapes apart, while Anchorage often boasts ranch-style homes perfect for enjoying the expansive Alaskan wilderness. Despite their different scenes, both cities offer strong urban lifestyles with similar ratings, providing diverse cultural and recreational experiences. Walkability may be a bit of a trade-off, as Portland features more pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods like the [Old Port](https://www.portlandsmaine.com/explore/dining-shopping-walk-map/) district, whereas Anchorage emphasizes vehicular travel. Additionally, Anchorage's real estate frequently highlights breathtaking mountain views, making for a unique living backdrop.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Anchorage, AK
1. South Addition: Known for its quiet streets and proximity to Delaney Park Strip, giving your pets a sprawling green space for daily walks and exercise.
2. Turnagain: Offers easy access to the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail where you and your pet can enjoy breathtaking views of Cook Inlet and encounter wildlife, perfect for active pets.
3. Rogers Park: This neighborhood is a peaceful area with a strong community vibe and several nearby dog parks, making it great for socializing your pets and meeting fellow pet owners.
Portland vs. Anchorage Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Portland, ME to Anchorage, AK , it's crucial to understand the different weather patterns in each location. This knowledge will prepare you for the climate changes you will experience, helping you make informed decisions on clothing, housing, and lifestyle adjustments needed for a smooth transition.
Portland, ME
Anchorage, AK
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Anchorage, AK
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Anchorage, AK
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, ME
Anchorage, AK
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Nor'easters, occasional hurricanes | Earthquakes, volcanic activity |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When relocating from Portland to Anchorage, you will notice significant changes in climate. Anchorage experiences longer, colder winters with average temperatures dipping lower than those in Portland. Although both cities enjoy good air quality, Anchorage has fewer sunny days annually, impacting your outdoor activities. Additionally, prepare for more seismic activity around Anchorage compared to Portland's coastal storms. Understanding these differences will help in planning for clothing and housing needs specific to Anchorage's climate.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Anchorage
If you're planning on making a move from Portland, ME to Anchorage, AK , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you're used to. This comparison will provide insights into financial disparities to help you better navigate your relocation effectively.
| Comparison | Portland | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,244 | $86,654 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.5 | 128.4 |
| State Income Tax | 7.15% | 0% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.30% | 1.18% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5% | 0% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tourism, Healthcare, Education | Oil, Fishing, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Minimal |
| Homelessness | Growing | Stable |
As you move from Portland to Anchorage, you'll notice a significant difference in state income tax, with Anchorage offering the benefit of no state income tax at all. This fact may offset Anchorage's slightly higher cost of living index. Also, the average household income is notably higher in Anchorage, favoring affordability and economic opportunity, despite the absence of sales tax, which could help curb daily expenses. Moreover, Anchorage boasts a more affluent economic environment with a minimal poverty rate, thanks to its strong industries like oil and fishing. These details can largely influence your financial planning when considering such a relocation.
Portland vs. Anchorage Political & Religious Comparison
This section offers a comparison of the politics between Portland, ME & Anchorage, AK , providing a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. Understanding the cultural mindset in each city can help you anticipate what to expect as you transition between these two unique communities.
| Portland | Anchorage | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Liberal | More Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive initiatives | Focus on resource management |
| Religion | Less Religious | More Religious |
As you transition from Portland to Anchorage, you may notice a shift in the political landscape. Portland's liberal leanings often support progressive causes, reflecting a community that embraces diversity and innovation. Anchorage, being more conservative, tends to focus on traditional values and resource management, which aligns with its economic ties to industries like oil and fishing. On the religious front, Portland has a generally secular outlook, whereas Anchorage has a more pronounced religious presence that reflects its diverse but spirituality-inclined community. These differences can significantly influence local culture and public discourse, making it important to embrace and understand the local values and perspectives in your new city.
Portland vs. Anchorage Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Navigating daily commutes and traffic conditions can vary greatly between cities. To help facilitate your move, we'll provide a detailed comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland, ME & Anchorage, AK , highlighting what you can expect in terms of daily commuting experiences.
| Comparison | Portland | Anchorage |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 18 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
While both cities enjoy relatively moderate commute times, you'll find that Portland offers slightly better public transportation options, with the likes of the Greater Portland Metro serving the area extensively. However, Anchorage's reliance on personal vehicles is more pronounced, partly due to its more spread-out urban layout. Traffic congestion is slightly more manageable in Anchorage, making driving a more viable option. If you're accustomed to relying on public transit in Portland, consider how the differences might affect your day-to-day routine when you relocate.
Additional Resources
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