Best Portland to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,164 mile move from Maine to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 41 Portland to Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland compared to Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.45 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | SC Moving Services | 9.18 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Vacationland Moving | 9.02 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Portland to Los Angeles
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,164 miles from Portland, ME to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $4,472 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Los Angeles move is roughly $10,821. 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 | $2,996 | 300 ft³ | 9.99 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,472 | 450 ft³ | 9.94 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,416 | 750 ft³ | 9.89 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,821 | 1100 ft³ | 9.84 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,660 | 1600 ft³ | 9.79 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,527 | 1800 ft³ | 9.74 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (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) |
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) |
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. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
If you're moving from one city to another, familiarizing yourself with your new surroundings can greatly aid the transition. By offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, ME & Los Angeles, CA , we aim to help you find similar areas to those you already know and love.
| Portland | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East End | Silver Lake | Trendy, artsy community |
| Old Port | Venice Beach | Lively, historic charm |
| West End | Westwood | Historic, upscale vibe |
| Bayside | Echo Park | Bohemian, diverse atmosphere |
| Deering Center | Los Feliz | Eclectic, family-friendly |
| Woodfords | Santa Monica | Suburban feel, beach access |
| Libbytown | Palms | Urban, budget-friendly |
| Nason's Corner | Mar Vista | Residential, community-centric |
| Rosemont | Mid-City | Central location, diverse homes |
| Downtown | Downtown LA | Bustling business district |
If you love the lively, historic charm of Old Port with its cobblestone streets and vibrant bar scene, you'll feel right at home in Venice Beach, where shopping and oceanfront cafes abound. Similarly, the artsy allure of Portland's East End can be found reflected in LA's Silver Lake, known for its eclectic murals and coffee shops. If you enjoy the community-centric feel of Nason's Corner, you'll find Mar Vista offers a similar suburban serenity with its independent restaurants and farmers markets.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Los Angeles
Exploring your move from Portland, ME to Los Angeles, CA requires a balanced look at both destinations. This comparison offers an honest reflection that highlights both the good and bad attributes of relocating from Portland, ME to Los Angeles, CA , ensuring expectations match reality.
Portland, ME- Cold winters
- Limited cultural diversity
- Fewer job opportunities
- Distance from big markets
- Small city feel
Los Angeles, CA- Mild winters
- Rich cultural diversity
- Abundant job market
- Hub for entertainment
- Vibrant nightlife
Los Angeles, CA- Heavy traffic
- Busy urban life
- High cost of living
- Spread-out communities
- Expensive seafood
Portland, ME- Quiet lifestyle
- Scenic nature
- Lower cost of living
- Tight-knit community
- Access to local seafood
In Portland, ME, you enjoy a quieter lifestyle amidst beautiful scenic views centered around the Arts District and Eastern Promenade. However, the allure of Los Angeles with its mild winters and a flourishing job market, especially in the entertainment sector, is undeniable. You'll also find cultural diversity at every turn, from the vibrant streets of Koreatown to the buzzing atmosphere of Downtown LA. While you might miss Portland's tight-knit feel, areas like Santa Monica and Venice Beach offer bustling environments to build new community connections.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and showcases what it's like to live in an area. This guide aims to help you explore the culinary landscape of your new home by offering a detailed look at the local cuisine, comparing eclectic dishes, and dining experiences from Portland, ME & Los Angeles, CA .
| Portland | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Lobster Roll | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Roast Beef Sandwich | Carne Asada Burrito |
| Most popular street food item | Fried Clams | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu Stir-Fry | Vegan Nachos |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Los Angeles, the culinary scene is as diverse as its population, offering an array of global flavors. While exploring, you might find yourself immersed in food havens like Grand Central Market in Downtown Los Angeles, where you can indulge in mouthwatering food from different cultures all under one roof. Neighborhoods like Venice Beach and Silver Lake are renowned for their vibrant food truck culture, providing an ever-changing menu to explore. Whether you are a fan of hot dogs or prefer vegan options like those in Vegan Street Fair, Los Angeles has a deep appreciation for innovative cuisine that caters to all tastes and dietary preferences.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Food is a key element in making any place feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you discover your new favorite eateries by using both Portland and Los Angeles as a guide.
| Portland | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Fore Street | République | Celebrated for its innovative, farm-to-table cuisine |
| Eventide Oyster Co. | EMC Seafood & Raw Bar | Known for its fresh and diverse seafood selections |
| The Honey Paw | NoMad Los Angeles | Offers a casual yet eclectic dining experience |
| Boda | Night + Market | Famed for authentic yet modern Thai street food |
| Central Provisions | Bestia | Renowned for its inventive small plates and vibrant atmosphere |
| Duckfat | Father's Office | Recognized for its casual gourmet offerings |
| Scales | The Hungry Cat | Noted for its high-end, sustainable seafood dishes |
| Five Fifty-Five | Providence | Offers a sophisticated dining experience with an emphasis on seafood |
| Street & Co. | Catch | Esteemed for its market-fresh fish and a lively yet upscale vibe |
| Salvage BBQ | Phil's BBQ | Famous for its flavorful and juicy barbeque |
In this journey from Portland to Los Angeles, you'll find that culinary excellence is not confined to one coast. République captivates diners with its seasonal menu and charming ambiance, echoing the allure of Portland’s Fore Street. Those who frequent Eventide Oyster Co. will be delighted by the seafood treasures at EMC Seafood & Raw Bar, where oysters and fresh catches are served in a setting that resonates with beachy vibes. The vibrant and inventive plates that make Central Provisions a staple in Portland's food scene have an exciting counterpart in Bestia, a restaurant celebrated for its dynamic take on modern cuisine. Whether you’re seeking upscale dining or comfort foods that reflect Portland’s diverse palate, Los Angeles provides ample opportunities to savor familiar tastes and discover new favorites.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding the housing market differences between Portland, ME and Los Angeles, CA can significantly impact your decision-making process. Comparing aspects such as cost, style, and lifestyle can provide valuable insights for your relocation.
| Comparison | Portland | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Victorian | Mid-Century Modern, Spanish Mission |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Harbor Views, Historic Character | Rooftop Decks, Pool |
Moving from Portland to Los Angeles involves transitioning to a different housing market. In Portland, the charming historic architecture, like the Victorian homes, may captivate you. However, Los Angeles offers a blend of Mid-Century Modern and Spanish Mission styles, appealing to those with a taste for diverse architectural beauty. The significantly higher housing costs in Los Angeles reflect its urban lifestyle and walkability, making it ideal for those who seek an active city life. For example, exploring neighborhoods like Santa Monica might offer an attractive urban environment with a mix of amenities and activities.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.
2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
When relocating from Portland to Los Angeles , understanding the weather differences is crucial to anticipate lifestyle changes. This comparison highlights key contrasts, so you can prepare for climate adjustments seamlessly.
Portland, ME
Los Angeles, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Los Angeles, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, ME
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate to Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Nor'easters | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from Portland’s chilly winters with significant snowfall to the mild climate of Los Angeles, expect your wardrobe needs to change. Los Angeles offers more sunny days, which might influence your leisure activities, though its air quality can be a concern if you're sensitive to pollutants. The dryness of L.A. means less rain but also the challenge of frequent wildfires. Preparing for natural disasters might involve different strategies, with a focus on earthquake readiness in California.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Los Angeles
If you're considering moving from Portland, ME to Los Angeles, CA , it's crucial to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you're used to. This chart provides a straightforward comparison of key financial aspects between the two cities.
| Comparison | Portland | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,244 | $70,372 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.5 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 7.15% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.30% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5% | 9.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Retail | Entertainment, Tech, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
When considering a move from Portland to Los Angeles, you'll notice significant differences in income levels and taxation. Los Angeles, with a higher average household income, also comes with notably higher living expenses, as reflected by the cost of living index. State income tax is considerably steeper in California, which might impact your take-home pay. However, property tax in Portland is higher than in Los Angeles, which could be a financial relief for homeowners in the latter city. The industry landscape varies as well; while Portland thrives in healthcare and education, Los Angeles is a hub for entertainment and technology.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from Portland, ME to Los Angeles, CA provides opportunities to experience different cultures and lifestyles. This guide offers a comparison of the political landscape and religious affiliations between Portland & Los Angeles , providing a quick snapshot of how life might differ in your new home.
| Portland | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Progressive | Very Liberal |
| Local Politics | Majority Democrat | Strong Democratic Presence |
| Religion | Mostly Non-religious | Diverse Religious Community |
When transitioning from Portland to Los Angeles, you'll discover a more vibrant and diverse political scene. While Portland holds a progressive stance with a majority of its residents identifying with the Democratic party, Los Angeles leans even further left with a broad Democratic influence. Additionally, Los Angeles hosts a fascinating tapestry of religious beliefs, ranging from mainstream Christianity to smaller religious communities like Buddhism and Islam, unlike Portland, where non-religiosity is more common. This diversity in Los Angeles is not only limited to politics and religion but extends to broader cultural aspects as well, enriching your overall experience in the city.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic is crucial when moving from one city to another. This comparison highlights the distinctive traffic and transportation options between Portland & Los Angeles , helping you anticipate and plan for your new routine effectively.
| Comparison | Portland | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 45 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Possibly, but challenging |
Los Angeles is notorious for its high traffic congestion, which is considerably more intense than what you'll find in Portland. While both cities offer public transportation options, Los Angeles's sprawling layout makes commuting without a car more challenging. The LA Metro, however, could be a viable option for you depending on your destination. Meanwhile, in Portland, you'll find it easier to rely on public transit such as the reliable TriMet bus and light rail systems, making it possible for many to live without a car. Adapting to LA's busier streets may take some time, but familiarizing yourself with resources like the Metro system can make the transition smoother.
Additional Resources
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Popular Portland to California Routes
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