Best Portland to Columbus Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Portland to Columbus and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 901 mile move from Maine to Ohio go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 32 Portland to Columbus 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 Blue Men Moving LLC), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $6,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland compared to Columbus. 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 Columbus Moving Companies
Rank | Company Name | Rating | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Blue Men Moving LLC | 9.56 | 9.71 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
2 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.18 | 9.35 | 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 |
Cost to Move from Portland to Columbus
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 901 miles from Portland, ME to Columbus, OH will cost on average $2,547 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Columbus move is roughly $6,117. 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 | $1,713 | 300 ft³ | 5.71 |
1 Bedroom | $2,547 | 450 ft³ | 5.66 |
2 Bedrooms | $4,208 | 750 ft³ | 5.61 |
3 Bedrooms | $6,117 | 1100 ft³ | 5.56 |
4 Bedrooms | $8,818 | 1600 ft³ | 5.51 |
5+ Bedrooms | $9,830 | 1800 ft³ | 5.46 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Columbus to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Columbus Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Blue Men Moving LLC
10445 Blacklick-Eastern Rd NW
Pickerington, OH, 43147
About Blue Men Moving LLC
With locations in Seville and Akron, Blue Men Moving started its operations in 2011 with a mission of providing a superior...
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Cross-country moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3544037 / 1184394 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 78,500 (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) |

Manifest Shipping Llc
501 Southwick Pl
Trenton, OH, 45067
About Manifest Shipping Llc
Manifest Shipping LLC, based in Trenton, Ohio, is a trusted residential and commercial moving company founded in 2017. Serving central and...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3050908 / 49758 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 8 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 46,740 (2022) |

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

1484 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. Columbus Neighborhood Comparison
Welcome to our guide, designed to compare local neighborhoods between Portland, ME & Columbus, OH . This will help you get acquainted with Columbus using familiar neighborhoods from Portland as benchmarks.
Portland | Columbus | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
Old Port | Short North | Vibrant dining and arts scene |
West End | Victorian Village | Historic homes and green spaces |
Back Cove | Clintonville | Scenic parks and bike trails |
East End | German Village | Quaint homes and community feel |
Munjoy Hill | Brewery District | Rapidly developing with trendy spots |
Deering Center | Grandview Heights | Family-friendly with local shops |
Parkside | Italian Village | Cultural diversity and growing popularity |
Bayside | Franklinton | Urban renewal area, artist community |
Rosemont | Upper Arlington | Suburban feel with urban conveniences |
If you enjoy the vibrant energy of Portland’s Old Port, with its eclectic mix of restaurants like Fore Street and artisan shops, you'll feel right at home in Columbus’s Short North, known for its bustling arts district and eateries like Forno Kitchen + Bar. Both neighborhoods offer a lively atmosphere perfect for those who thrive in dynamic urban settings. For a more historic and tranquil experience, consider the West End’s architectural charm complemented by green spaces such as Western Promenade; Victorian Village in Columbus mirrors this with its stunning homes and proximity to parks like Goodale Park. If access to recreational trails and scenic views are what you seek, Back Cove's peaceful surroundings are similar to Clintonville's bike-friendly paths and parklands, making them ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Columbus
When considering a move from Portland, ME to Columbus, OH, it's important to have an honest reflection of what you'll be gaining and what you might miss. This comparison offers insights into the pros and cons of both cities to help you make an informed decision about moving from Portland to Columbus .
- Long winters
- Limited cultural events
- Higher cost of living
- Small job market
- Isolated location
- Milder winters
- Vibrant cultural scene
- Affordable housing
- Growing job market
- Central location
- Landlocked scenery
- Fewer seafood options
- Busy lifestyle
- Modern development
- Chain stores
- Coastal scenery
- Fresh seafood
- Quaint atmosphere
- Historic sites
- Artisanal shops
Moving to Columbus means saying goodbye to Portland's charming coastal scenery and fresh seafood from establishments like Scales or Eventide Oyster Co., but it opens up a vibrant cultural scene with places like the Columbus Zoo and COSI. While Portland offers historic sites and a quaint atmosphere, moving to Columbus allows access to modern development and popular areas like the Short North Arts District. Neighborhood parks like Goodale Park offer a welcome escape from urban life. The bustling job market and milder winters in Columbus might also be appealing for those looking for more career opportunities and a break from Maine's harsh winters.
Portland vs. Columbus Food Guide
Food is an integral aspect of local culture and defines the character of a place. By understanding the comparison of the local cuisine between Portland, ME & Columbus, OH , you can gain insight into the culinary scene awaiting you at your new destination.
Portland | Columbus | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Lobster Roll | Pierogi |
Most popular meat dish | Pork Belly | Sausage |
Most popular street food item | Fried Clams | Gyro |
Most popular vegan food | Seaweed Salad | Buffalo Cauliflower |
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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When moving to Columbus, you'll find its diverse neighborhoods like the Short North and German Village offering a delightful blend of iconic foods. Indulge in pierogi at one of the city's famed local festivals or enjoy a mouth-watering sausage at Schmidt’s Sausage Haus. If you're keen on exploring diverse flavors, food trucks are plentiful, providing an ever-evolving array of quick bites. For those who enjoy plant-based delights, Columbus does not disappoint, showing its vegan-friendly side through places like Northstar Café. Keep in mind the city's approachable yet varied foodie scene as you plan your dining adventures in Columbus.
Portland vs. Columbus Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Portland, ME to Columbus , OH, finding new dining favorites can make your transition smoother. This restaurant comparison will guide you as you explore your new city, drawing from the best of what Portland has to offer, allowing you to bring a slice of familiar culinary delight into your Columbus days.
Portland | Columbus | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Fore Street | The Refectory | Comparable in its dedication to fine dining and fresh, local ingredients. |
Eventide Oyster Co. | The Pearl | Renowned for its seafood selection and lively atmosphere. |
Duckfat | Hot Chicken Takeover | Known for its hearty, comfort food with a twist. |
Central Provisions | Small Plates | Offers creative, shared dishes that cater to the foodie palate. |
Becky's Diner | Tommy's Diner | Brimming with nostalgia and classic, diner-style dishes. |
The Honey Paw | Momo Ghar | Praised for its unique blend of flavors and vibrant settings. |
Portland Lobster Company | Mitchell's Ocean Club | Highlights quality seafood with an upscale twist. |
Empire Chinese Kitchen | Dragonfly Neo-V | Offers innovative Asian-inspired cuisine. |
Otto | Mikey's Late Night Slice | Specializes in creative and indulgent pizza offerings. |
Boda | Katalina's | Offers a unique take with a focus on vibrant, global flavors. |
When seeking fine dining experiences in Columbus, look no further than The Refectory, which mirrors the sophistication and dedication to local ingredients found at Portland's Fore Street. For seafood enthusiasts, The Pearl recreates the lively, seafood-rich atmosphere reminiscent of Eventide Oyster Co. For a unique gastronomic adventure, Momo Ghar offers a vibrant ambiance and delightful fusion of flavors that parallels the distinctive experience at Portland's The Honey Paw. And when comfort food calls your name, Hot Chicken Takeover in Columbus stands ready with its hearty dishes, echoing the mouthwatering options you savored at Duckfat. These comparisons can help you navigate the culinary scene in Columbus and ease your transition into your new hometown.

Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Columbus Real Estate & Living Facts
One of the most crucial aspects of relocating is understanding the real estate landscape . Comparing housing in Portland, ME and Columbus, OH is essential to grasp how these cities stack up against each other, helping you make an informed decision.
Comparison | Portland | Columbus |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | New England Colonial | Midwestern Craftsman |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Waterfront Views | Open Floor Plans |
When evaluating the housing scene, Portland 's higher median home prices reflect its seaside charm and New England architecture, which often features waterfront views. Despite this, the city offers a more walkable environment, allowing you to easily explore local attractions like the Old Port. On the other hand, Columbus provides more affordable housing with its Midwestern Craftsman homes. It is ideal for those seeking value without compromising on amenities, offering bike-friendly paths throughout the city, including the popular Olentangy Trail. Ultimately, your choice may depend on whether you prefer coastal living with easy walking access or the affordability and bikeability of a bustling Midwestern metropolis.
Portland vs. Columbus Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Portland, ME to Columbus, OH , understanding the weather differences can help you prepare for climate changes you'll experience. Each location offers distinct seasonal patterns that affect daily life, energies, and even health. This comparison will provide insights into the new environmental conditions you'll encounter.
Portland, ME
Columbus, OH
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Columbus, OH
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, ME
Columbus, OH
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, ME
Columbus, OH
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Portland | Columbus |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
Natural Disasters | Nor'easters | Tornadoes |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Portland to Columbus, you'll find a shift in how you experience seasons. Columbus experiences hotter summers and milder winters compared to Portland. With fewer sunny days and slightly more humidity, Columbus may feel more overcast and damp. Additionally, while both cities are subjected to different natural disasters, your emergency preparations may change due to the presence of tornadoes in Columbus. Air quality also shifts slightly with Columbus having a moderate level compared to Portland's consistently good quality. Meanwhile, allergies might intensify given Columbus has a prevalence of tree pollen in addition to ragweed.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Columbus
When you're moving from Portland, ME to Columbus, OH , it's important to understand how cost of living and other financial factors compare to what you are accustomed to.
Comparison | Portland | Columbus |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $70,244 | $58,202 |
Cost of Living Index | 116.5 | 92 |
State Income Tax | 7.15% | 4.797% |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.30% | 1.56% |
Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5% | 7.5% |
Top 3 Industries | Agriculture, Tourism, Healthcare | Education, Insurance, Manufacturing |
Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
Poverty | Low | Moderate |
Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
Moving from Portland to Columbus might offer you a unique financial landscape. One major difference is the cost of living index, where Columbus is substantially lower, potentially allowing for a more comfortable lifestyle. However, while Columbus offers a lower average household income, the lower state income tax rate can also help stretch your budget. Top industries shift from Portland's focus on agriculture and tourism to Columbus's emphasis on education and manufacturing, offering diverse opportunities depending on your field. Understanding these differences can help you better plan your finances and career in your new city.
Portland vs. Columbus Political & Religious Comparison
Use this snapshot to understand the political and religious landscapes in Portland & Columbus . This quick comparison aims to provide insight into the cultural nuances you might experience as you transition between these two distinct cities.
Portland | Columbus | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Liberal | Moderate |
Local Politics | Democrat Majority | Both Democrat and Republican representation |
Religion | Varied, with a strong emphasis on secularism | Predominantly Christian, with diverse denominations |
The political environment in Portland leans more liberal, while in Columbus, you'll find a moderate climate with representation from both major parties. This political diversity can influence local policymaking and community initiatives. Regarding religious affiliations, Columbus exhibits a prominent Christian community, spreading across various denominations. If you are interested in exploring religious or secular communities, consider visiting Portland’s community centers or Columbus’s diverse worship places to immerse yourself in local culture and social life. Moving from one city to the other might present you with new perspectives and opportunities to engage with distinct sociopolitical and religious contexts.
Portland vs. Columbus Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Portland, ME to Columbus, OH involves adjusting to new traffic patterns and transit options. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Columbus will help you better understand what the daily commute is like in your new city.
Comparison | Portland | Columbus |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 24 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Yes, in downtown areas | Yes, but limited |
When transitioning to Columbus, you'll notice that the city is larger and somewhat more congested than Portland. Traffic congestion scores higher in Columbus, affecting drive times, particularly during rush hours. Although Columbus offers more public transit options, they are still not as extensive as those found in larger metropolitan areas. However, local areas such as Short North and downtown might be manageable without a car due to their walkability and bike-friendly environment.



Additional Resources
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