Best Portland to San Jose Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to San Jose and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,294 mile move from Maine to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 24 Portland to San Jose 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 D&L 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 San Jose. 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 San Jose Moving Companies
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Portland to San Jose
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,294 miles from Portland, ME to San Jose, CA will cost on average $4,582 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to San Jose move is roughly $11,091. 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 | $3,070 | 300 ft³ | 10.23 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,582 | 450 ft³ | 10.18 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,600 | 750 ft³ | 10.13 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $11,091 | 1100 ft³ | 10.08 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $16,053 | 1600 ft³ | 10.03 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,970 | 1800 ft³ | 9.98 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Jose to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to San Jose Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
D&L Movers
1563 Bahama Way
Campbell, CA, 95008
About D&L Movers
Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2706648 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2017) |
Careful Movers
3641 Haven Ave C
Menlo Park, CA, 94025
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, and on-budget...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1464935 / 553377 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 14 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 90,000 (2022) |
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. San Jose Neighborhood Comparison
If you're planning a move from Portland, ME to San Jose, CA, this guide aims to help you navigate your new surroundings by comparing neighborhoods between Portland, ME & San Jose, CA . Discover the closest equivalents to your favorite Portland neighborhoods in San Jose and feel at home in no time.
| Portland | San Jose | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Old Port | Downtown San Jose | Restaurants and nightlife |
| West End | Willow Glen | Charming architecture and cafes |
| East End | Japantown | Culture and history |
| Deering Center | Rose Garden | Family-friendly with parks |
| Back Cove | Almaden Valley | Outdoor spaces |
| Munjoy Hill | Berryessa | Panoramic views |
| Bayside | North San Jose | Mixed-use development |
| Nason's Corner | Santa Teresa | Community feel |
| Riverton | Evergreen | Suburban vibe |
| Stroudwater | Los Gatos | Historic charm |
If you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Portland's Old Port with its bustling restaurants and lively nightlife, you'll feel right at home in Downtown San Jose, where dining and entertainment options abound. West End's blend of charming architecture and inviting cafes is comparable to Willow Glen, known for its tree-lined streets and delightful eateries. For those who appreciate history and culture, the East End of Portland offers an experience akin to San Jose's Japantown, where heritage and modernity coexist. The Deering Center neighborhood boasts family-friendly parks much like the Rose Garden in San Jose, an excellent spot for leisurely strolls and community gatherings. If you're a fan of outdoor activities, the waterside allure of Back Cove will remind you of the expansive green spaces in Almaden Valley, offering beautiful trails and natural beauty.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to San Jose
Considering a relocation from Portland, ME to San Jose, CA requires an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes inherent in this move. These charts contrast the various aspects of life in each city, aiming to provide a clear understanding of the implications of leaving Portland for San Jose.
Portland, ME- Harsh winter weather
- Limited tech job market
- Fewer diverse restaurants
- Seasonal tourist influx
San Jose, CA- Mild climate year-round
- Thriving tech industry
- Culinary diversity
- Steady tourist balance
San Jose, CA- High housing prices
- Dense population
- Heavy traffic
- Inland location
Portland, ME- Lower housing costs
- Close-knit community
- Walkable city
- Beautiful coastlines
Moving from Portland to San Jose invites you to enjoy more outdoor activities like hiking in the Almaden Quicksilver County Park and soaking in the culture of Santana Row, a bustling area known for shopping and dining. Unlike Portland, San Jose boasts a vibrant tech scene, with endless career opportunities in companies like Apple and Adobe. While housing prices in San Jose are higher, the access to diverse culinary experiences like at the renowned Original Joe's in Downtown San Jose makes up for it. However, the trade-off means dealing with heavier traffic, a stark contrast to Portland's smaller, walkable streets. You'll also miss the quaint charm of Portland's coastlines, but you'll find new beauty in San Jose's surrounding areas.
Portland vs. San Jose Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture and plays a significant role in experiencing life in a new area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & San Jose , helping you better understand what the food scene looks like in both cities.
| Portland | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Lobster Roll | Burrito |
| Most popular meat dish | Clam Chowder | Carne Asada Fries |
| Most popular street food item | Whoopie Pie | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu Scramble | Vegan Sushi |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you transition to San Jose, you'll discover a vibrant culinary scene where Mexican-inspired dishes like burritos and tacos are at the forefront. While Portland offers abundant food truck options for whoopie pies and tofu scrambles, San Jose has an incredible array of Mexican street food especially in neighborhoods like the downtown area. If you're a fan of iconic eateries, don't miss the opportunity to visit La Victoria Taqueria for their famous sauce in San Jose, or exploring vegan-friendly spots around Santana Row. The abundance of food trucks might draw you more towards Portland, but San Jose's dynamic food culture, highlighted by the diversity of options, especially for vegans, will surely make your transition flavorful.
Portland vs. San Jose Restaurant Comparison
Food is a pivotal part of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison will guide you from Portland, ME to San Jose, CA , helping you discover your new favorite eateries by using your current hometown as a guide.
| Portland | San Jose | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Eventide Oyster Co. | Catch of the Day | Both renowned for their fresh, local seafood |
| The Holy Donut | Manley's Donuts | Both offer creative takes on classic donuts |
| Fore Street | La Foret | Share a commitment to farm-to-table fine dining |
| Becky's Diner | Bill's Café | Both recognized for their hearty, traditional breakfast menus |
| Duckfat | The Table | Comparable in gourmet comfort food offerings |
| Central Provisions | The Table | Share a dedication to innovative small plates |
| Tandem Coffee and Bakery | Vero's Coffee Bar | Both focus on artisanal coffee and freshly baked goods |
| OTTO | Blue Line Pizza | Both are favorites for their inventive pizza selections |
| Blue Spoon | Back A Yard | Known for their unique spin on classic comfort dishes |
| Silly's Restaurant | The Crepevine | Both stand out for their quirky, eclectic menus |
As you transition from Portland to San Jose, you'll find that the culinary journey is a delightful one. While Eventide Oyster Co. is celebrated for its locally sourced seafood, you'll find a similarly exquisite selection at San Jose's Catch of the Day. If donuts are your passion, Manley's Donuts offers creative takes that will remind you of the beloved creations at Portland's The Holy Donut. For fine dining enthusiasts, La Foret in San Jose echoes the farm-to-table commitment that makes Fore Street so special in Portland. Both Blue Line Pizza and OTTO are well-loved for their quirky and inventive pizza offerings, making your transition seamless when that pizza craving hits.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. San Jose Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how housing in Portland, ME stacks up against San Jose, CA. This comparison will guide you through the key differences that impact living conditions and lifestyle in these two cities.
| Comparison | Portland | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | New England Colonial | Ranch-style |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Waterfront views | Proximity to tech companies |
When considering a move from Portland to San Jose, one of the first aspects that will catch your attention is the notable difference in housing costs. The median home price in San Jose is almost three times that of Portland, reflecting its status as a tech hub. While Portland boasts charming New England colonial homes, San Jose offers mostly ranch-style houses. Though walkability in these cities is quite similar, Portland scores higher in bikeability, making it an attractive option for those who enjoy cycling. In real estate listings, you'll notice Portland homes often highlight waterfront views, whereas San Jose's listings emphasize proximity to major tech companies, catering to professionals looking to be near their workplaces.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Jose, CA
1. Willow Glen: Known for its quaint, tree-lined streets, you'll find plenty of pet-friendly restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere at Willow Glen's downtown area, perfect for leisurely walks with your furry friends.
2. Cambrian Park: Boasting a serene suburban vibe, Cambrian Park is home to several parks, including the dog-friendly Butcher Dog Park, where your pets can play off-leash in a safe, enclosed environment.
3. Downtown San Jose: If you're looking for a more urban experience, Downtown San Jose offers many pet-friendly living spaces and amenities, alongside dog-friendly dining options like Original Joe’s, making it an ideal place for pet owners who love city living.
Portland vs. San Jose Weather Considerations
If you're planning a move from Portland, ME to San Jose, CA , understanding the differences in weather can help you adjust to your new environment. Anticipating changes in climate , temperature , and seasonal factors ensures you're prepared for the transition from the Northeast to the West Coast.
Portland, ME
San Jose, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
San Jose, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
San Jose, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, ME
San Jose, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Occasional storms | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Portland to San Jose means trading cold winters and snowfall for milder climates with more sunshine. While Portland's winters are often marked by heavy snowfall, San Jose's enjoy a winter season more akin to Portland's autumn in terms of temperatures. The higher number of sunny days in San Jose may be a pleasant change, offering more opportunities for outdoor activities. However, you should prepare for a notable decrease in annual rainfall, which may impact water conservation practices. Additionally, staying aware of earthquake preparedness will be crucial in your new Californian home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to San Jose
If you're moving from Portland to San Jose , it's important to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will provide insights into differences in income levels, taxes, and economic factors, helping you anticipate financial adjustments after your move.
| Comparison | Portland | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,244 | $126,377 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.5 | 156.1 |
| State Income Tax | 7.15% | 13.3% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.2% | 0.76% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5% | 9.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Tourism, Education | Tech, Finance, Education |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Moderate | High |
When moving to San Jose from Portland, you'll need to consider that although the average household income is significantly higher, the cost of living index reflects a much steeper expense, especially in housing and everyday services. The state income tax in California is almost twice as high, which could impact your take-home pay, despite the higher income level. Additionally, San Jose's economy is largely driven by the tech industry, which might present new professional opportunities but also a highly competitive environment. Understanding these economic factors can help you better prepare for the financial changes that come with living in a more affluent and economically vibrant area.
Portland vs. San Jose Political & Religious Comparison
To provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, this section offers a comparison of the politics between Portland & San Jose . By understanding these dynamics, you'll gain insight into the cultural landscape of your new home.
| Portland | San Jose | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning | Liberal, but diverse |
| Local Politics | Progressive city council | Mixed, with strong tech influences |
| Religion | Less religious, secular outlook | Religious diversity, strong Catholic presence |
Moving from Portland, ME to San Jose, CA introduces you to a slightly different political atmosphere. While both cities lean liberal, San Jose's political landscape is shaped by its diverse population and significant influence from the tech industry. This can be seen in how policies are crafted and what local issues gain attention. Moreover, San Jose's religious diversity presents a broader spectrum of cultural practices and community events, enriching the overall social experience. If you're interested in engaging with new communities or exploring different religious or political activities, both Portland and San Jose offer unique opportunities that can enrich your move.
Portland vs. San Jose Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To help you better understand your upcoming move, this section offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & San Jose . Whether you're concerned about commute times or the necessity of owning a car, this overview aims to prepare you for the daily transit experiences in each city.
| Comparison | Portland | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
When moving to San Jose, you'll notice the significantly higher traffic congestion compared to Portland, which can make commutes feel longer than they are. While public transit options are more extensive in San Jose, you might find that owning a car could be beneficial due to the sprawling nature of the city. In contrast, Portland's moderate traffic and compact city layout make it easier to rely on public transit for daily commutes. Transitioning between these environments will necessitate adjustments in how you manage your daily travel, but both cities offer unique solutions to effectively navigate their urban landscapes.
Additional Resources
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Popular Portland to California Routes
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