Best Portland to Minneapolis Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Portland to Minneapolis and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 1,411 mile move from Maine to Minnesota go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Portland to Minneapolis 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 Metro Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $2,000 - $7,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland compared to Minneapolis. 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 Minneapolis Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Metro Movers | 9.49 | 9.73 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| 2 | General Expert Moving Service LLC | 9.27 | 8.89 | 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 Minneapolis
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 1,411 miles from Portland, ME to Minneapolis, MN will cost on average $2,981 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Minneapolis move is roughly $7,177. 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 | $2,002 | 300 ft³ | 6.67 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,981 | 450 ft³ | 6.62 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,931 | 750 ft³ | 6.57 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $7,177 | 1100 ft³ | 6.52 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $10,360 | 1600 ft³ | 6.47 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $11,565 | 1800 ft³ | 6.42 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Minneapolis to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Minneapolis Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Metro Movers
434 Blake Rd N
Hopkins, MN, 55343
About Metro Movers
Metro Movers, a licensed and insured transport and logistics company in Minnesota, was founded by two childhood friends with a shared...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Business Moving
- Long Distance Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3742268 / 1503884 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 16,000 (2023) |
General Expert Moving Service LLC
3804 22nd Ave S
Minneapolis, MN, 55407
About General Expert Moving Service LLC
General Expert Moving Service LLC is a family-owned moving company based in Minnesota. It started with two brothers and a pickup...
Services
- Cheap moving
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2846187 / 1285395 Authorized For HHG Carrier/Shipper |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 24 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 30,000 (2024) |
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. Minneapolis Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting experience, but by comparing neighborhoods you already know in Portland, ME to those in Minneapolis, MN , we aim to make the transition smoother. Understanding the character of both cities helps you feel more at home in your new environment.
| Portland | Minneapolis | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Old Port | North Loop | Vibrant nightlife and historic charm |
| East End | Northeast Minneapolis | Artistic vibe with galleries |
| West End | Uptown | Trendy shops and lively events |
| Back Cove | Lake Nokomis | Scenic waterfront and outdoor activities |
| Deering Center | Longfellow | Family-friendly with a community feel |
| Munjoy Hill | Cathedral Hill | Elevated views and historical homes |
| Libbytown | Whittier | Diverse cuisine and cultural mix |
| Stroudwater | Kenny | Quiet suburban neighborhood setting |
| Rosemont | Powderhorn Park | Vibrant community gatherings and green space |
| Parkside | Kingfield | Compact with local eateries and cafes |
If you enjoy the vibrant nightlife and historic charm of Portland's Old Port, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Minneapolis's North Loop, where trendy bars and historic warehouses create a lively environment. Artists and creatives will feel at home moving from the East End to Northeast Minneapolis, known for its galleries and art events. For those who love Back Cove's scenic waterfront escapes, Lake Nokomis offers a tranquil setting with plenty of outdoor activities. If you appreciate the community vibe of Deering Center, you'll likely find Longfellow enticing, known for its residential charm and welcoming feel. Lastly, the diverse culinary scene of Libbytown aligns well with Whittier, where multicultural eateries provide a rich dining experience.
Things to Do in Minneapolis
Explore the Walker Art Center- Picnic by Minnehaha Falls
- Shop at Mall of America
- Visit Mill City Museum
- Bike along the Mississippi River
- Spend a day at Minnesota Zoo
- Catch a Twins game at Target Field
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Minneapolis
This guide offers an honest reflection on the good and bad aspects of relocating from Portland, ME to Minneapolis, MN . By exploring both sides, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of what awaits you in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. This unique format aims to help you make the smoothest transition possible.
Portland, ME- High housing costs
- Limited direct flights
- Snowy winters
- Small city nightlife
- Quiet dining scene
Minneapolis, MN- More affordable housing
- Major airport hub
- Drier snowfall
- Vibrant nightlife
- Culinary diversity
Minneapolis, MN- No oceanfront
- Busy city life
- Fewer fresh options
- Less coastal culture
- Larger population
Portland, ME- Close beach access
- Charming Old Port
- Local seafood
- Rich maritime history
- Community feel
While the charm of Portland, ME, with its beloved Old Port and oceanfront access might be hard to leave behind, Minneapolis offers an array of new experiences. The city is known for its parks like Silverwood Park and vibrant neighborhoods, each bustling with local restaurants and sights. You'll find an extensive food scene in places such as North Loop. Despite the lack of oceanfront, Minneapolis compensates with its lakes and scenic views. Shopping and cultural experiences are abundant too, with venues like the Walker Art Center offering regular exhibitions and events.
Portland vs. Minneapolis Food Guide
Food is an important part of local culture and what it's like to live in an area. We'll compare the local cuisine between Portland & Minneapolis so you can be better informed about the food scene where you are moving to.
| Portland | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Lobster Roll | Juicy Lucy |
| Most popular meat dish | Clam Chowder | Walleye Fish Fry |
| Most popular street food item | Poutine | Cheese Curds |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Lobster Mac & Cheese | Mock Duck Tacos |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Minneapolis is a city that offers a rich variety of flavors, from its iconic Juicy Lucy found in bustling neighborhoods like Uptown, to the delicious cheese curds that paint its street food scene vibrant. If you are a vegan enthusiast, exploring mock duck tacos throughout the city will surely keep you engaged, especially in areas such as Northeast Minneapolis. You'll also find an abundance of food trucks, making it incredibly convenient to sample diverse offerings on the go. Discovering top dining spots like Murray's or Hell's Kitchen will give you a true taste of Minneapolis' unique culinary landscape.
Portland vs. Minneapolis Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a vital role in making a place feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Portland and Minneapolis aims to help you discover new favorite spots by drawing parallels to beloved eateries in your current town.
| Portland | Minneapolis | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Fore Street | Spoon and Stable | Known for farm-to-table dining experiences |
| Eventide Oyster Co. | Sea Salt Eatery | Celebrated for its fresh seafood dishes |
| Duckfat | The Naughty Greek | Offers casual dining with a focus on unique flavor combinations |
| Hot Suppa | The Lowry | Renowned for hearty comfort food |
| Central Provisions | Bar La Grassa | Features creative small plates in a trendy atmosphere |
| Scales | Meritage | Pairs seafood with an elegant dining setting |
| Becky's Diner | Keys Café & Bakery | Offers timeless diner favorites |
| Hugo's | Alma | Known for innovative cuisine and an intimate setting |
| Flatbread Company | Pizza Lucé | Local favorite for gourmet pizzas and casual vibes |
| Street & Co. | Tilia | Excels in providing a rustic yet refined dining experience |
As you transition from Portland to Minneapolis, dining at Spoon and Stable will feel reminiscent of Portlands' beloved Fore Street, with its dedication to locally sourced ingredients and exquisite presentation. Seafood enthusiasts will find solace at Sea Salt Eatery, where the fresh and diverse menu can easily replace your go-to, Eventide Oyster Co. For a casual outing, make your way to The Naughty Greek, which stands just as robust and unpretentious as the iconic Duckfat, offering enticing dishes that are uniquely delicious. Settle into the warm, comforting atmosphere of The Lowry when you crave the rich, satisfying bites of Hot Suppa, ensuring that your taste buds are right at home.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Minneapolis Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how Portland, ME and Minneapolis, MN compare to make informed housing decisions. Knowing details like cost, style, and neighborhood features can guide you toward a seamless relocation.
| Comparison | Portland | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian | Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Water Views | Open Floor Plan |
When considering a move, it's essential to weigh the contrasting styles and amenities of Portland and Minneapolis. In Portland, you might find Victorian homes imbued with historic charm, often emphasizing water views. These elements are quite different from the Craftsman-style homes and open floor plans frequently seen in Minneapolis, providing a more modern and spacious living environment. Minneapolis, with its higher walkability and bikeability scores, supports an active lifestyle in its urban neighborhoods. Such features could significantly affect your daily routine and leisure choices.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Minneapolis, MN
1. Linden Hills: Known for its quaint and walkable streets, you'll find numerous pet-friendly cafes and the nearby Lake Harriet perfect for dog walking.
2. Uptown: With its vibrant mix of parks like Lake of the Isles, pet stores, and patio dining options, Uptown is a haven for pets and their owners alike.
3. Northeast Minneapolis: This artsy neighborhood boasts pet-friendly breweries like Sociable Cider Werks, along with plenty of green spaces and riverfront paths for leisurely walks.
Portland vs. Minneapolis Weather Considerations
If you're planning a move from Portland to Minneapolis , understanding the weather differences is crucial to ensure you're prepared for your new environment. This comparison will highlight key climate aspects you'll encounter in each city, helping you transition smoothly.
Portland, ME
Minneapolis, MN
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Minneapolis, MN
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Minneapolis, MN
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, ME
Minneapolis, MN
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Nor'easters | Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Adjusting to the climate in Minneapolis might be a bit challenging if you're used to Portland. Though both cities have comparable humidity levels, Minneapolis typically experiences more severe cold in the winter, with average lows dropping to 8°F compared to Portland's 16°F. Additionally, you might find that the risk of tornadoes in Minneapolis is a notable change from the Nor’easters that are common in Portland. On a brighter note, Minneapolis tends to have slightly warmer summer temperatures and fewer days of rainfall annually.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Minneapolis
If you're moving from Portland, ME to Minneapolis, MN, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living will compare to what you are used to. This comparison will help you manage your financial expectations and make informed decisions about your new life in Portland or Minneapolis .
| Comparison | Portland | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $70,244 | $69,397 |
| Cost of Living Index | 116.5 | 111 |
| State Income Tax | 7.15% | 6.80% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.30% | 1.25% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.50% | 8.03% |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Tourism, Fishing | Finance, Technology, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Diverse |
| Poverty | Low | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Stable | Increasing |
When comparing Portland and Minneapolis, you will notice differences in income and tax structures. Although the average household income is higher in Portland, the cost of living index balances this out, being higher than in Minneapolis. Interestingly, while the state income tax is higher in Portland, the average sales tax is significantly higher in Minneapolis, which could impact your shopping habits. Industry-wise, Portland's economy leans heavily on traditional sectors like healthcare and tourism, whereas Minneapolis is more immersed in finance and technology. Understanding these nuances will help you plan your finances better when making this transition.
Portland vs. Minneapolis Political & Religious Comparison
The purpose of this comparison is to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in Portland, ME and Minneapolis, MN. This information can help you understand what to expect when you move. Below, you will find a comparison of the politics between Portland & Minneapolis along with other cultural insights.
| Portland | Minneapolis | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Generally liberal, with a Democratic stronghold | Predominantly Democratic with a history of progressivism |
| Local Politics | Strong environmental conservation policies; visit the City Hall for more | Innovative civic policies supporting social equity; see the Minneapolis Government Website for details |
| Religion | Diverse religious communities with a significant presence of Christian denominations | Religiously diverse with a strong Lutheran community and growing multi-faith representation |
In Portland, you will find a city with a strong Democratic presence, characterized by its commitment to environmental issues, often manifesting in local policies that emphasize conservation and sustainable practices. Minneapolis similarly leans Democratic but stands out for its progressive approaches, particularly in tackling social equity with innovative policies. Both cities boast rich religious diversity, though Minneapolis has a notable Lutheran heritage. Engaging with local assemblies, like attending meetings at Portland's City Hall or checking updates on the Minneapolis Government Website, can provide deeper insights into how each city's political and religious climate might influence your daily life.
Portland vs. Minneapolis Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the daily commute and traffic situation is crucial when considering a move, as it impacts your quality of life. This guide will provide insights into comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Minneapolis , enabling you to make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Portland | Minneapolis |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Maybe | Yes |
In Portland, your average commute is shorter, making the city feel more accessible, though the reliability of public transit like the Metro or ferry services might not be sufficient for all. Minneapolis demands a bit more travel time, but the robust Metro Transit system, including buses and light rail, provides a strong alternative to car commuting. While Portland's layout may allow for car-free living on occasion, Minneapolis delivers more consistent public transport options. You might find the more dynamic urban environment of Minneapolis offers greater flexibility in commuting approaches, especially if you're looking to minimize your reliance on a vehicle.
Additional Resources
Portland Moving Services
Popular Portland to Minnesota Routes
Popular Moving Resources
