Best Detroit to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Detroit to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,502 mile move from Michigan to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 29 Detroit to Portland 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 Northwest Grace Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Detroit compared to Portland. 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 Detroit to Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.28 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc | 8.46 | 8.22 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Balance Detroit | 8.43 | 7.79 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | High Quality Moving Company | 8.23 | 8.5 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Detroit to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,502 miles from Detroit, MI to Portland, OR will cost on average $3,909 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Detroit to Portland move is roughly $9,445. 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 | $2,621 | 300 ft³ | 8.74 |
| 1 Bedroom | $3,909 | 450 ft³ | 8.69 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $6,477 | 750 ft³ | 8.64 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $9,445 | 1100 ft³ | 8.59 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $13,658 | 1600 ft³ | 8.54 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $15,276 | 1800 ft³ | 8.49 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Detroit guide.
Compare the 5 Best Detroit to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
About Northwest Grace Moving
Founded in 2008, Northwest Grace Moving is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured Oregon moving company that serves the entire Portland...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |
All Service Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service Moving66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
About All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
| Registered Drivers | 113 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
11850 E Jefferson
Detroit, MI, 48214
About Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc
Grosse Pointe Moving & Storage Inc is a full-service moving and storage company based in Detroit, Michigan. Founded in 1985, the...
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Corporate moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 279708 / 629575 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 28,000 (2023) |
Balance Detroit
Livonia, MI, 48150
About Balance Detroit
Located in Detroit, Balance Detroit is a reputable moving company offering a variety of services including white glove service, long-distance and...
Services
- White Glove Service
- Long Distance Moves
- Small Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4059339 / 1539936 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 6,000 (2024) |
High Quality Moving Company
32401 W 8 Mile Rd
Livonia, MI, 48152
About High Quality Moving Company
High Quality Moving Company, based in Livonia, Michigan, has been serving the Detroit Metro Area since 2010. They offer a wide...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Local Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3435629 / 1178011 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 80,000 (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.
Detroit vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be overwhelming, especially when relocating to a city you're not familiar with. Through this guide, we aim to make your transition smoother by offering a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Detroit, MI & Portland, OR. Utilize this resource to find a new neighborhood that reminds you of home.
| Detroit | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Midtown | Pearl District | Vibrant arts scene, upscale |
| Corktown | Mississippi Avenue | Historic, trendy eateries |
| Downtown | Downtown Portland | Urban core, shopping |
| Eastern Market | Alberta Arts District | Local markets, art-focused |
| Woodbridge | Sellwood-Moreland | Family-friendly, historic homes |
| Brush Park | Nob Hill | Historic architecture, bustling nightlife |
| Mexicantown | Cully | Diverse, foodie paradise |
| Palmer Woods | Laurelhurst | Upscale, serene parks |
| Indian Village | Irvington | Historic homes, peaceful |
| West Village | Hawthorne Boulevard | Bohemian, unique shops |
If you're drawn to the historic charm and diverse dining options of Corktown, you'll find a similar vibe along Mississippi Avenue in Portland, with its trendy eateries and vibrant street culture. Similarly, the artistic and market-driven spirit of Detroit's Eastern Market is mirrored in the Alberta Arts District. Here, you can explore local markets and engage in the art-focused community. For those moving from Palmer Woods, Portland's Laurelhurst offers an upscale setting with serene parks such as Laurelhurst Park, perfect for leisurely afternoon walks or picnics. In Woodbridge, the essence of historic homes and a tight-knit community can be rediscovered in Sellwood-Moreland, where you'll find a family-friendly atmosphere alongside antique shops and cozy cafés like St. Honoré Bakery.
Things to Do in Portland
Hike in Forest Park- Stroll through Portland Japanese Garden
- Enjoy food carts at various locations
- Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
- Explore Powell's City of Books
- Sample brews on a craft brewery tour
- Watch a movie at Cinema 21
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Detroit to Portland
Moving from one city to another involves weighing the good against the bad to make the best decision possible. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the pros and cons of relocating from Detroit, MI to Portland, OR . By understanding both the advantages and disadvantages, you can prepare for a smoother transition and set realistic expectations for your new life in Portland.
Detroit, MI- Higher crime rate
- Colder winters
- Less green space
- Economic challenges
Portland, OR- Lower crime rate
- Milder winters
- Abundant parks
- Strong job market
Portland, OR- Less diverse genres
- Higher living costs
- Fewer automotive events
- Less historic heavy industry
Detroit, MI- Lively music scene
- Affordable housing
- Rich automotive culture
- Robust industrial history
Moving from Detroit to Portland brings significant changes, particularly in lifestyle and environment. You'll transition from the Motor City's iconic car culture and historic significance to Portland's greener landscapes and more sustainable living. Imagine replacing visits to Detroit's historic Belle Isle Park with strolls through Washington Park in Portland, known for its stunning gardens and zoo. While Detroit's bustling Eastern Market offers a vivid testament to the city's vibrant community and industrial prowess, Portland's Portland Farmers Market showcases an impressive array of local produce and artisan goods, reflecting the city's strong support for local businesses. The shift from Detroit's legendary music scene to Portland's eclectic music vibe means discovering new genres in intimate venues like Crystal Ballroom, albeit with a broader exploration beyond automotive events.
Detroit vs. Portland Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Detroit & Portland, highlighting how food is an integral part of local culture and living experience. By understanding the food scene in both cities, you'll be better informed about what culinary delights await you.
| Detroit | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Coney Dog | Donuts |
| Most popular meat dish | Detroit-style Pizza | Pulled Pork Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Gyros | Food Carts' Various Offerings |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Curry | Vegan Ramen |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Detroit, the Coney Dog is a must-try local dish that represents the city's unique culinary heritage. You can experience the rich flavors of Detroit by visiting establishments like Lafayette Coney Island. Meanwhile, in Portland, the food scene is remarkably diverse, with an emphasis on freshness and innovation. For instance, Voodoo Doughnut offers an eclectic variety of donuts and has become an iconic spot that reflects Portland's quirky identity. The abundance of food trucks and vegan-friendly options in Portland ensures that you can find a wide range of cuisines and dietary accommodations, making it a paradise for food lovers.
Detroit vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering great places to eat. This comparison of restaurants from Detroit to Portland helps bridge the gap between familiar and new, making the transition smoother for your taste buds. Whether you crave upscale dining or a casual bite, let this guide serve as your culinary map from Detroit to your new home in Portland.
| Detroit | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Selden Standard | Tasty n Alder | Known for inventive New American dishes and a welcoming atmosphere. |
| Supino Pizzeria | Apizza Scholls | Famous for their disciplined approach to New Haven-style pizza. |
| Slows Bar BQ | Pok Pok | While not a BBQ spot, Pok Pok's focus on bold flavors and unique meat dishes offers a parallel culinary experience. |
| Rose's Fine Food | Screen Door | Offers a hearty, upscale take on comfort food, akin to Rose's dedication to quality ingredients. |
| Greektown Casino-Hotel | Spirit Mountain Casino | Beyond gaming, its dining options provide an array of choices similar to Greektown's wide selection. |
| Cadieux Cafe | Brouwer's Café | Captures a similar European pub feel, focusing on a large selection of beers and hearty meals. |
| La Feria Spanish Tapas | Ataula | Though Spanish cuisine, Ataula provides a comparable tapas experience with a creative twist. |
| Taqueria Mi Pueblo | Por Que No | Celebrated for authentic, innovative Mexican dishes that mirror Mi Pueblo's traditional approach. |
| Cliff Bell's | Teardrop Lounge | Offers a cozy ambiance with live music and great cocktails, similar to the experience at Cliff Bell's. |
| Shewolf | Renata | Both are known for Italian cuisine that highlights fresh, regional ingredients and artisanal techniques. |
For those who've relished the vibrant and diverse dining scene in Detroit, Portland promises an equally thrilling culinary adventure. For example, while not an exact culinary match, Slows Bar BQ’s lovers will appreciate Pok Pok's commitment to intense flavors, especially in their innovative meat dishes, which reminds one of the satisfaction found in a perfectly smoked brisket. Meanwhile, Taqueria Mi Pueblo afficionados will find solace and excitement in discovering Por Que No, which serves up Mexican cuisine with a passion and authenticity that resonates deeply with Detroit's own Mexican culinary gems. It's these echoes of familiar flavors, combined with Portland's unique culinary personality, that promise to make your new city feel like home.
Ready to start your move?
Detroit vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal factor when considering relocation. It's essential to decipher how Detroit, MI and Portland, OR stack up in terms of housing elements like cost, architecture, and lifestyle. This comparison aims to illuminate these crucial aspects to assist in your decision-making process.
| Comparison | Detroit | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Historic bungalows and colonials | Craftsman and Old Portland |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious yards, garage | Eco-friendly features, proximity to nature |
When you analyze the housing landscape of Detroit and Portland, several key differences emerge that could sway your decision. Detroit’s housing market is notably more affordable, both in terms of buying and renting. Properties in Detroit often highlight spacious yards and garage space, reflecting the city's automotive heritage and lower-density urban development. In contrast, Portland is lauded for its bikeability and walkability, aligning with a more active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle. The higher cost of living in Portland is offset by its emphasis on sustainability and access to nature, a factor evident in its property listings which frequently boast eco-friendly attributes and proximity to green spaces. Whether you prioritize affordability and space, or an eco-conscious lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities, these cities offer distinctive advantages.
Detroit vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Detroit, MI to Portland, OR, it's crucial to understand how the weather can impact your daily life. This comparison aims to highlight the weather differences between Detroit and Portland , helping you prepare for your new environment.
Detroit, MI
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Detroit, MI
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Detroit, MI
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Detroit | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Severe Storms, Snow | Earthquakes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Comparing Detroit and Portland's weather, you'll find significant differences that could influence your lifestyle. While both cities enjoy warm summers, winters in Portland are milder with less snowfall, making year-round outdoor activities more feasible. Portland experiences more rainfall annually, which contributes to its lush, green landscapes but means you'll encounter more wet days. The greater amount of days with sunshine in Detroit might be missed, though Portland's air quality is generally better, which could be a positive change for those sensitive to pollution.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Detroit to Portland
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your budget due to differences in the cost of living and taxes. Understanding these changes is crucial when relocating from Detroit, MI to Portland, OR. This comparison focuses on essential financial aspects to consider, ensuring a smoother transition to your new life.
| Comparison | Detroit | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $36,140 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 99.4 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 2.3 | 0.96 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Automotive, Technology, Healthcare | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Lower | Higher |
| Poverty | Higher | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
Although the average household income in Portland is significantly higher compared to Detroit, it's important to consider that Portland's cost of living and state income tax are also substantially higher. Detroit offers a more affordable living situation but with a lower average income. The state-income-tax-free status of sales in Portland might seem attractive, but it's balanced by its higher living expenses. Both cities face challenges with homelessness despite their economic differences. Understanding these nuances will help you plan your finances appropriately for a smoother relocation experience.
Detroit vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Detroit, MI to Portland, OR, it’s helpful to understand the community you’re joining. This quick overview offers a comparison of the politics and religious makeup of Detroit & Portland to give you a sense of what to expect in your new home.
| Detroit | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on economic recovery, community development | Environmental sustainability, progressive social policies |
| Religion | Higher concentration of Christian denominations | Diverse, with a notable presence of unaffiliated individuals |
Although both cities lean heavily Democratic, the focus of local politics does vary, reflecting the unique priorities and challenges of each city. Detroit has been concentrating on economic recovery and community development, efforts that are palpable when you visit places like the Downtown Detroit Partnership. In comparison, Portland places a significant emphasis on environmental sustainability and progressive social policies, with initiatives visible in their city governance and local activities. Religious makeup also shows contrast; Detroit hosts a higher concentration of Christian denominations, while Portland is known for its religious diversity and substantial number of unaffiliated individuals. These differences contribute to the unique cultural and social fabric of each city.
Detroit vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
As you consider moving from Detroit, MI to Portland, OR, understanding the differences in daily commutes and traffic is crucial. This comparison between Detroit & Portland aims to provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect regarding traffic and transportation options in these cities.
| Comparison | Detroit | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24 | 24.8 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Challenging | Easier |
In Detroit, while the average commute time might be similar to Portland's, the reliance on personal vehicles is markedly higher. This is due to Detroit's lower score in public transit availability, making it more challenging to get by without a car. In contrast, Portland prides itself on a more robust public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and streetcars, making it notably easier for residents to navigate the city without personal vehicles. This difference contributes significantly to Portland's slightly higher traffic congestion rating, as the city encourages the use of alternative modes of transport.
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