Best Portland to Sacramento Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Portland to Sacramento and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,247 mile move from Maine to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Portland to Sacramento 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 (approximately $3,000 - $11,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland compared to Sacramento. 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 Sacramento Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Rickey's Gold Country Moving | 9.21 | 8.91 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | SC Moving Services | 9.19 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
| 4 | Vacationland Moving | 9.03 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Workhorse Moving Co. | 8.46 | 8.69 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Portland to Sacramento
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,247 miles from Portland, ME to Sacramento, CA will cost on average $4,542 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Sacramento move is roughly $10,994. 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 | $3,043 | 300 ft³ | 10.14 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,542 | 450 ft³ | 10.09 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,533 | 750 ft³ | 10.04 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,994 | 1100 ft³ | 9.99 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,911 | 1600 ft³ | 9.94 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,810 | 1800 ft³ | 9.89 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Sacramento to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Sacramento 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) |
Rickey's Gold Country Moving
15887 Rattlesnake Rd
Grass Valley, CA, 95945
About Rickey's Gold Country Moving
Rickey's Gold Country Moving is a moving company based in Grass Valley, CA. They have received positive customer reviews for their...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3065202 / 1398360 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (2023) |
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) |
Workhorse Moving Co.
West Sacramento, CA, 95691
About Workhorse Moving Co.
Workhorse Moving Co. is a locally-owned and operated moving company in Calaveras County that has been serving the Gold Country since...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3369346 / 1080028 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10 (2023) |
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. Sacramento Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, but comparing neighborhoods can ease the transition. This guide compares local neighborhoods between Portland, ME & Sacramento, CA , helping you find familiar comforts in your new surroundings.
| Portland | Sacramento | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Old Port | Midtown | Vibrant nightlife, hip eateries |
| West End | East Sacramento | Historic charm, leafy streets |
| East Deering | Arden Arcade | Family-friendly, suburban feel |
| Munjoy Hill | Land Park | Artistic vibe, scenic views |
| Deering Center | Natomas | Community-centered, great schools |
| Rosemont | Sierra Oaks | Quiet, residential atmosphere |
| Back Cove | River Park | Water views, running trails |
| North Deering | North Natomas | Spacious, suburban living |
| Libbytown | South Natomas | Cultural diversity, city parks |
| Bayside | Oak Park | Eclectic, revitalized community |
Exploring new neighborhoods is an adventure you'll find rewarding in both cities. If you're fond of East Deering's family-friendly vibe in Portland, Sacramento's Arden Arcade offers a similar suburban atmosphere with highly rated schools like Jesuit High School. Those who love the artistic vibe of Munjoy Hill will find solace in Sacramento's Land Park, known for its flourishing arts scene and proximity to the iconic William Land Park, offering lush landscapes and the beloved Sacramento Zoo. Additionally, if the vibrant nightlife of Old Port suits your style, Midtown in Sacramento will delight you with its trendy bars and forward-thinking eateries like Pizzeria Urbano and The Rind, a cheese-focused restaurant. Whichever neighborhood you choose, both cities provide unique local color and character that can make your transition smooth and enjoyable.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Sacramento
When contemplating a move from Portland, ME to Sacramento, CA, it's crucial to evaluate both the improvements and drawbacks associated with this transition. This honest reflection will help you weigh the pros of moving to Sacramento, CA alongside the cons of leaving Portland, ME.
Portland, ME- Harsh winters
- Fewer job opportunities
- Limited nightlife
- High heating costs
- Remote feeling
Sacramento, CA- Mild winters
- Job growth
- Bustling nightlife
- Lower energy costs
- Urban amenities
Sacramento, CA- Hot summers
- Higher crime rate
- Less historic charm
- Less fresh seafood
- Less neighborhood intimacy
Portland, ME- Coastal summers
- Low crime rate
- Charming architecture
- Local seafood
- Community feel
Making the move will grant you a reprieve from the frigid winters Portland is known for, allowing you to enjoy more of the mild and pleasant California weather. Sacramento's rapidly growing economy might open new job opportunities that aren't as prevalent in Portland. For weekends, exploring hip neighborhoods like Downtown Sacramento will reveal a dynamic nightlife with plenty to do. While Portland offers delicious and fresh seafood, you can still delight in Sacramento's vibrant farm-to-fork culinary scene at spots like Mulvaney's B&L. Although you'll miss Portland's cozy, tight-knit community feel, Sacramento offers the vibrancy and amenities of a large city including the beautiful Capitol Park and historic Old Sacramento that will surely capture your interest.
Portland vs. Sacramento Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. In this guide, we'll conduct a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland and Sacramento to better inform you about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Portland | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Lobster Roll | Farm-to-Fork Dishes |
| Most popular meat dish | Seafood Chowder | Tri-Tip |
| Most popular street food item | Clam Cakes | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Pizza | Avocado Toast |
| 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 Sacramento, you can dive into the renowned farm-to-fork culture which champions fresh ingredients mostly sourced from local farms. For authentic experiences, head to the Midtown district where eateries like The Waterboy blend local produce with traditional flavors. The abundance of food trucks, particularly around the Handle District, keeps the dining scene vibrant and diverse. If you're a vegan, Sacramento's commitment to health is seen in its rising number of plant-based eateries. Don't miss trying avocado toast, a staple in many trendy cafes such as Temple Coffee Roasters in the downtown area.
Portland vs. Sacramento Restaurant Comparison
Moving is about finding comfort in your new environment, and food plays a crucial role in feeling at home. This restaurant comparison between Portland and Sacramento will guide you in discovering your new favorite eateries using familiar experiences from your current hometown as a reference.
| Portland | Sacramento | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Eventide Oyster Co. | Hawks Provisions + Public House | Known for its delightful seafood dishes and a relaxed ambiance |
| Central Provisions | Mulvaney's B&L | Offers eclectic menus with local, seasonal ingredients |
| Street & Co. | The Waterboy | Specializes in Mediterranean and seafood dishes with casual charm |
| Duckfat | Burgers and Brew | Famous for its creative and delicious takes on casual dining |
| Fore Street | The Kitchen Restaurant | Focuses on wood-fired cooking and a farm-to-table approach |
| Hot Suppa | Jim-Denny's | Homestyle cuisine with iconic breakfast offerings |
| Empire Chinese Kitchen | Mikuni | Offers Asian-inspired dishes with a modern twist |
| Green Elephant | Mother | Catering to vegan and vegetarian tastes with innovative dishes |
| Salvage BBQ | The Shack BBQ | Delivers smoky, tender BBQ in a laid-back setting |
| The Honey Paw | Binchoyaki | Celebrates Asian fusion cuisine with bold, dynamic flavors |
For seafood lovers transitioning to Sacramento from Portland, a visit to Hawks Provisions + Public House will introduce you to the delightful exploration of seafood reminiscent of Portland's Eventide Oyster Co. Both establishments excel in crafting memorable dishes that bring out the best of the ocean's bounty. If you're a fan of innovative and vibrant culinary creations, then you’ll appreciate Mulvaney's B&L, which mirrors the culinary creativity found at Portland's Central Provisions with its seasonal menu. Meanwhile, those who miss the iconic BBQ experience offered by Salvage BBQ can satisfy their barbeque cravings at Sacramento's The Shack BBQ, where smoky flavors and hearty portions offer a familiar taste of home. Each restaurant provides a welcoming bridge between the flavors you love and those waiting to be discovered in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Sacramento Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's essential to know how the housing market in Portland, ME compares to that in Sacramento, CA to make an informed decision and find your ideal home.
| Comparison | Portland | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listings | Victorian homes near Old Port | Proximity to Midtown and Riverwalk |
When considering a move, analyzing the housing aspects such as cost and lifestyle can greatly affect your decision. Portland offers charming Colonial homes, reflecting its rich historical essence, with a moderate level of walkability and bikeability that suits those who enjoy a quiet urban life. On the other hand, Sacramento tends to favor the practical Ranch style, higher walkability, and a bustling urban lifestyle, often appealing to those seeking a vibrant city experience. Proximity to key areas like Midtown and the Riverwalk often feature prominently in Sacramento listings, highlighting the dynamic appeal of the city and perhaps hinting at a more active lifestyle awaiting you there.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Sacramento, CA
1. Midtown : This area's abundant dog parks, such as Truitt Bark Park, and pet-friendly patios make it a haven for pet owners.
2. East Sacramento : Known for its picturesque streets and close proximity to the spacious McKinley Park, it's perfect for long walks with your furry friend.
3. Land Park : With its expansive green spaces like William Land Park, it's ideal for pets that love outdoor activities and living close to nature.
Portland vs. Sacramento Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Portland, ME to Sacramento, CA , it's crucial to evaluate the weather differences between these two locations. Understanding the climate changes will help you better adjust and plan for your new home environment.
Portland, ME
Sacramento, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Sacramento, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Sacramento, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, ME
Sacramento, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Winter storms | Wildfires and earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
As you transition from Portland to Sacramento, be prepared for a noticeable increase in sunshine, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Sacramento's lower annual rainfall contrasts sharply with Portland's frequent rain, leading to drier air and reduced humidity. However, this also means a higher risk of wildfires compared to the winter storms you're used to in Maine. Allergy seasons will persist, although the triggers may differ slightly given Sacramento's grassy landscapes. It's important to take these differences into account when planning your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Sacramento
When moving from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial differences you will encounter. This chart provides a comparison of money -related topics, helping you to navigate the economic landscape as you transition from Portland, ME to Sacramento, CA .
| Comparison | Portland | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,244 | $75,311 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.5 | 116.2 |
| State Income Tax | 7.15% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.30% | 0.79% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5% | 7.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Health Care, Retail, Education | Government, Health Care, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
In transitioning from Portland to Sacramento, you'll notice significant differences in economic factors. While Sacramento benefits from a higher average household income, it comes with the price of higher state income taxes. Conversely, Portland has a considerably higher cost of living index, meaning every dollar you earn might not stretch as far. The industry landscape is quite distinct, with Sacramento being a hub for government and technology, which may influence job opportunities. These insights will be instrumental in helping you make informed decisions as you navigate your move.
Portland vs. Sacramento Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering you insights into the cultural dynamics you'll encounter. Compare the politics between Portland & Sacramento to understand the diversity and beliefs prevalent in these cities.
| Portland | Sacramento | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans liberal | Leans liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive with strong environmental focus. Visit City of Portland for more info. | Emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Explore more at City of Sacramento. |
| Religion | Diverse, with a mix of Christian denominations and secularism | Also diverse, with a significant Hispanic Catholic community and other faiths represented |
When comparing Portland and Sacramento, you'll find that both cities lean liberal politically, yet they each possess unique civic priorities. Portland's local politics strongly advocate for environmental sustainability, which aligns with its coastal geography. Meanwhile, Sacramento's commitment to innovation and sustainability reflects its role as the state capital of California. Religiously, both regions boast diversity; however, Sacramento is notable for its large Hispanic Catholic community, adding a distinct cultural aspect to the city's overall makeup. Exploring local city websites can open doors to understanding these civic nuances more thoroughly.
Portland vs. Sacramento Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To help you better understand what your daily commute might look like after moving, this guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Sacramento . We aim to highlight key differences in commute times, congestion levels, and transit availability.
| Comparison | Portland | Sacramento |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 19 | 29 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Somewhat | Yes |
When transitioning from Portland to Sacramento, one of the notable differences you'll encounter is the longer commute time in Sacramento, averaging around 29 minutes compared to Portland's 19. Despite the increase in traffic congestion, which scores a 6 out of 10, Sacramento offers a more robust public transit system. This allows you greater flexibility in choosing whether or not to own a car. Sacramento's transit options are well-integrated, making it feasible to get by without one, unlike in Portland, where having a car is more convenient for daily activities.
Additional Resources
Portland Moving Services
Popular Portland to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
