Best Portland to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 108 mile move from Maine to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 60 Portland to Boston 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 Portland compared to Boston. 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 Boston 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 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | SC Moving Services | 9.19 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | Vacationland Moving | 9.03 | 9.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Portland to Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 108 miles from Portland, ME to Boston, MA will cost on average $1,592 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Boston 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 Boston to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Boston 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) |
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. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
To help you compare the local neighborhoods between Portland, ME & Boston, MA , we’re using familiar neighborhoods as reference points to better acquaint you with the area you're moving to.
| Portland | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Old Port | North End | Historic, waterfront area with lively nightlife |
| West End | Back Bay | Residential charm with Victorian architecture |
| East End | South End | Artistic community with galleries and culture |
| Munjoy Hill | Jamaica Plain | Diverse, family-friendly with panoramic city views |
| Deering Center | Brookline | Suburban feel with city's conveniences |
| Downtown Portland | Downtown Boston | Bustling center, business and entertainment |
| Rosemont | Mid-Cambridge | Quiet, academic atmosphere close to city |
| Woodfords Corner | Davis Square | Eclectic hub with eateries and shops |
| Nason's Corner | Roslindale | Residential with a community feel |
| Peaks Island | George's Island | Scenic escape with historic charm |
Exploring Portland’s vibrant Old Port with its cobblestone streets and thriving nightlife feels reminiscent of Boston's North End, where history and modern culture blend seamlessly. If you're drawn to the residential allure of Portland’s West End, with its Victorian architecture and neighborhood parks like Deering Oaks, Boston's Back Bay offers a similar vibe, celebrated for its iconic brownstone homes and the peaceful expanse of the Boston Public Garden. Munjoy Hill in Portland, known for gorgeous views and a strong sense of community, finds its counterpart in Boston’s Jamaica Plain, boasting the Arnold Arboretum and a range of cultural eateries. For a taste of the eclectic, Woodfords Corner might remind you of Davis Square, where independent cafes and quirky boutiques thrive.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Boston
Moving from Portland, ME to Boston, MA can be an exciting yet challenging decision. This guide offers an honest reflection on the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. By analyzing these factors, you'll gain insight into whether moving to Boston could be the right step for you.
Portland, ME- Limited nightlife
- Fewer job opportunities
- Limited public transport
- Colder winter temperatures
Boston, MA- Vibrant nightlife
- Rich job market
- Extensive transit network
- Milder winter temperatures
Boston, MA- Busy city life
- Higher living cost
- Fewer coastal areas
- Concrete landscapes
Portland, ME- Quieter lifestyle
- Lower living cost
- Beautiful coastal views
- Access to nature
While Portland, ME offers the charm of a quieter lifestyle and lower living costs, moving to Boston, MA presents a fresh array of opportunities. If you thrive in vibrant, bustling environments, the nightlife around Downtown Boston and Fenway will likely excite you. With Boston's extensive public transportation network, places like Franklin Park and top-rated restaurants are easily accessible. However, be prepared for a shift from Portland’s beautiful coastal views to Boston’s more urban landscape. Ultimately, weighing these factors will help you decide if Boston aligns with your future aspirations.
Portland vs. Boston Food Guide
Food is an essential part of local culture, offering a taste of what it’s like to live in an area. Moving from one city to another is not just a change in scenery but also in cuisine. Here, we're comparing the local cuisine between Portland, ME & Boston, MA so you can become better informed about the food scene you're stepping into.
| Portland | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Lobster Roll | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Baked Haddock | Roast Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Fish Tacos | Fenway Frank |
| Most popular vegan food | Seaweed Salad | Vegan Burgers |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Moving to Boston, you'll find that the food scene is as lively as its historical landmarks. In areas like the North End, you can savor a bowl of creamy clam chowder that's as iconic as the city itself. If you're a street food enthusiast, grab a Fenway Frank, especially when you're in the Fenway neighborhood catching a game. For vegans, Boston offers a growing array of options, with delicious vegan burgers available in popular spots like the Allston area. The city's emphasis on fitness also plays a role in its cuisine, often offering healthier spins on classic New England meals. You'll notice a burst of food trucks during the warmer months, particularly in neighborhoods like the Seaport District, further enriching your culinary adventures.
Portland vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
Food is essential for creating a sense of home. This restaurant comparison will guide you in discovering your new favorite eateries using your current hometown as a guide. Use this Portland vs Boston chart to navigate the culinary offerings each city provides and make your move more deliciously seamless.
| Portland | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Fore Street | Menton | Known for its exquisite fine dining that mirrors Fore Street's attention to European-influenced dishes |
| Eventide Oyster Co. | Island Creek Oyster Bar | Renowned for fresh oysters and seafood that capture the coastal culinary essence |
| Central Provisions | Neptune Oyster | A hotspot serving small plates with vibrant flavors akin to Central Provisions |
| Duckfat | Sweet Cheeks Q | Famed for its comfort food focused on hearty, artisanal offerings |
| Wei-Li | Myers + Chang | Offering delicious Asian-inspired dishes with a modern twist |
| Allagash Brewery | Sam Adams Brewery | Where craft beer aficionados can explore a variety of local brews |
| Flatbread Company | Picco | Lauded for its freshly made pizzas and use of wholesome ingredients |
| The Honey Paw | Suya Joint | Known for eclectic fusion dishes that represent diverse flavors |
| Becky's Diner | The Paramount | An iconic spot for casual diner-style meals echoing Becky's homely vibe |
| Hugo's | No. 9 Park | Celebrated for its innovative, chef-driven tasting menus |
Embarking on a culinary journey from Portland to Boston, you'll find establishments like Menton that mirror the fine dining experience of Portland's Fore Street. Both restaurants are synonymous with European-influenced gastronomy infused with local ingredients. Seafood enthusiasts will feel right at home with Boston's Island Creek Oyster Bar offering fresh catches that evoke the flavors and marine magic of Portland’s Eventide Oyster Co. In search of comfort and artisanal dishes? Sweet Cheeks Q offers hearty comfort food reminiscent of Portland's beloved Duckfat, ensuring you never miss the cozy, down-to-earth dining experiences. As for pizza, the dynamic and ready-to-please offerings of Boston's Picco resonate with the warm, organic spirit of Portland's Flatbread Company, serving deliciously wholesome pizzas.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding the differences in housing between Portland, ME and Boston, MA can help guide your decision .
| Comparison | Portland | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Waterfront Access | Proximity to Public Transit |
When moving from Portland to Boston, you'll likely notice a significant increase in both median home prices and rent. This increase is reflected in the vibrant urban lifestyle Boston offers, highlighted by terms like "Proximity to Public Transit" frequently mentioned in listings. Boston’s [walkability](https://www.boston.gov) and [bikeability](https://www.bostonbikes.org) also contribute to its appeal to those seeking an active urban experience. Meanwhile, Portland retains its unique charm with scenic [waterfront](https://www.portlandmaine.com) properties that capture the essence of Victorian architecture. Understanding these nuances can guide you in making choices that align with your lifestyle preferences and budget.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA
1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.
2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.
3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.
Portland vs. Boston Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Portland, ME to Boston, MA , it's crucial to understand how their weather compares. This knowledge helps you prepare and adjust to the differences you'll experience during your transition. Analyzing the Boston climate alongside Portland 's familiar conditions can make your move smoother and more predictable.
Portland, ME
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, ME
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms | Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Portland to Boston, you'll notice a slight shift in temperatures, particularly during the summer where Boston is a bit warmer. Despite this, both cities share a similar number of sunny days each year. However, Boston may experience more varied natural disasters such as flooding compared to Portland's significant snowfall. If you are prone to allergies, be prepared for ragweed in Boston, differing from the pollen issues commonly found in Portland.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Boston
If you're considering a move from Portland, ME to Boston, MA , understanding how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to is key. Our comparison will help you make informed decisions about your financial future, ensuring a smoother transition between these two vibrant cities.
| Comparison | Portland | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,244 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.5 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 7.15% | 5.00% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.30% | 1.23% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.50% | 6.25% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Education, Tourism | Finance, Education, Technology |
| Affluence | Moderate | Affluent |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Noticeable | Moderate |
Moving from Portland to Boston means adapting to a higher cost of living index, with Boston being significantly more expensive. You'll notice that while the average household income in Boston is higher, this is offset by the increased cost of essentials. Although state income tax is lower in Massachusetts, the sales tax is higher compared to Maine. Boston’s economy is bolstered by industries like finance and technology, offering diverse career opportunities if you’re seeking employment there. While both cities have vibrant economies, Boston’s affluence and its low poverty levels depict a dynamic urban setting.
Portland vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents of Portland and Boston. It offers insights into the politics between Portland & Boston , helping you understand the differences in community dynamics and local engagements.
| Portland | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Left | Historically Democratic |
| Local Politics | City Council | City Council |
| Religion | Diverse Mix | Catholic Influence |
When moving from Portland to Boston, you might notice some intriguing differences in the local political scene. While Portland leans slightly left, Boston's political landscape is historically Democratic, which might influence your interactions with local government and voter initiatives. The religious communities also differ; Portland showcases a diverse mix, allowing for a variety of cultural expressions that enrich community events. Boston, on the other hand, has a notable Catholic influence that can be seen during holidays and in local traditions, like at the iconic Boston Catholic Archdiocese. These nuances in political and religious makeup create unique backdrops against which to engage with your new home.
Portland vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison between daily commuting and transportation options in Portland, ME & Boston, MA will help you better understand what navigating each city is like. Whether you're considering the stress of traffic or the expanse of public transit choices, this guide aims to prepare you for the transition from Portland's charming streets to Boston's bustling avenues.
| Comparison | Portland | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 20 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
Transitioning from Portland to Boston introduces you to a vibrant public transit system that could often replace your need for a car. Boston's public transit, rated at 9 out of 10, offers a robust network of buses, trains, and trolleys via the MBTA. In contrast, Portland's public transit is less comprehensive, making car reliance more common. The congestion level in Boston also poses a challenge, doubling Portland's user rating, which implies more frequent traffic jams. Therefore, living close to work or utilizing public transportation options could considerably improve your Boston experience.
Additional Resources
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Popular Portland to Massachusetts Routes
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