Best Raleigh to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Raleigh to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 818 mile move from North Carolina to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Raleigh 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 Raleigh Moving Company), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,000 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Raleigh 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 Raleigh to Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Raleigh Moving Company | 9.42 | 9.6 | Active | Contact |
| 2 | Athens Moving Experts | 9.34 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Capital Moving & Storage | 9.26 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | SC Moving Services | 9.18 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Raleigh to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 818 miles from Raleigh, NC to Portland, ME will cost on average $2,105 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Raleigh to Portland move is roughly $5,053. 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 | $1,416 | 300 ft³ | 4.72 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,105 | 450 ft³ | 4.68 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,477 | 750 ft³ | 4.64 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,053 | 1100 ft³ | 4.59 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $7,282 | 1600 ft³ | 4.55 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,115 | 1800 ft³ | 4.51 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Raleigh guide.
Compare the 5 Best Raleigh to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Raleigh Moving Company
Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distance moves...
Services
- Free estimates
- Full Value Protection (FVP)
- Fully licensed and insured
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3344628 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Athens Moving Experts
This listing has been claimed by Athens Moving Experts6601 Hillsborough St # 111
Raleigh, NC, 27606
About Athens Moving Experts
Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residential and...
Services
- Local Moving Services
- Long Distance Moving Services
- Commercial Moving Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3205320 / 204920 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 5 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2021) |
Capital Moving & Storage
3450 Bush St Suite 245
Raleigh, NC, 27609
About Capital Moving & Storage
Capital Moving & Storage, a family-owned company based in Raleigh, NC, has been providing high-quality moving services for over 20 years....
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Local & Long Distance Moving
- Packing
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3623752 / 1238777 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 120,504 (2023) |
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) |
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.
Raleigh vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
If you're moving from Raleigh, NC to Portland, ME, this guide is here to help. By drawing parallels between the local neighborhoods in Raleigh, NC & Portland, ME , you can better familiarize yourself with your new environment by using your current city as a baseline.
| Raleigh | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North Hills | Old Port | Vibrant dining, shopping |
| Five Points | West End | Historic, charming homes |
| Downtown Raleigh | Congress Street | Lively, urban center |
| Cameron Village | Munjoy Hill | Trendy shops, cafes |
| Glenwood South | Arts District | Nightlife, entertainment |
| Brier Creek | East Deering | Suburban, community feel |
| Boylan Heights | Deering Center | Quaint, historic vibe |
| Hayes Barton | Deering Highlands | Prestigious, elegant homes |
| Wade Park | Oakdale | Leafy, family-friendly parks |
| Mordecai | Back Cove | Cozy, neighborhood parks |
In Raleigh's North Hills, you'll find vibrant dining and shopping options similar to Portland's Old Port, beloved for its historic charm and lively atmosphere. If you're drawn to the historic, charming homes of Five Points, the West End in Portland, known for its picturesque streets and beautiful residences, will captivate you. Exploring the bustling energy of Downtown Raleigh translates well to Congress Street, where the heart of Portland beats with urban life and cultural activities. Glenwood South's nightlife hot spots align with Portland's Arts District, famous for theaters, galleries, and music venues. Wade Park's family-friendly green spaces are mirrored by Oakdale, which offers residents leafy retreats and community parks.
Things to Do in Portland
Walk along the Eastern Promenade- Explore Portland Museum of Art
- Shop at Portland Farmers' Market
- Catch a show at State Theatre
- Dine in the Old Port District
- Visit Children's Museum & Theatre
- Bike the Greenbelt Walkway
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Raleigh to Portland
The following comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Raleigh, NC to Portland, ME . By examining the contrasts, you can gain a clearer understanding of what to expect and make informed decisions about your potential move.
Raleigh, NC- Hot summers
- Urban sprawl
- Limited seafood
- Standard winters
- Fast-paced growth
Portland, ME- Milder climate
- Compact city center
- Seafood heaven
- Winter sports options
- Slower pace of life
Portland, ME- Higher living costs
- Limited job opportunities
- Fewer tech industries
- Quieter evenings
- Culinary differences
Raleigh, NC- Affordable housing
- Diverse job market
- Strong tech scene
- Vibrant nightlife
- Southern cuisine
While Raleigh offers a thriving job market and more affordable housing, the charm of Portland lies in its scenic beauty and leisurely lifestyle. Portland’s compact city center provides easy access to renowned spots like Casco Bay Islands and Old Port, known for its cobblestone streets and seafood delights. You can enjoy the recreational options of places like Fort Williams Park and get your fill of fresh local dishes at Fore Street restaurant. Though the winters in Portland offer exciting snow activities, keep in mind the high cost of living and significant difference in job opportunities compared to Raleigh.
Raleigh vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is an essential aspect of local culture and a key part of experiencing life in a new area. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Raleigh & Portland to help you better understand the culinary landscape you’ll encounter in your move.
| Raleigh | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Barbecue | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Fried Chicken | Scallops |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Burgers |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegan Pizza | Vegan Chowder |
| 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) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Portland offers a vibrant and diverse foodie scene that rivals Raleigh's, especially noted for its abundance of seafood like the beloved Lobster Roll. If you are moving to Portland, you'll find great places like Eventide Oyster Co., as well as delightful food trucks scattered across neighborhoods such as the Old Port District. The city’s dedication to being vegan-friendly shines at eateries that offer creative dishes like Vegan Chowder. This attention to dietary preferences extends to the general dining culture, which values health conscious and sustainable ingredients. Meanwhile, Raleigh’s classic southern comfort foods give way to some incredible culinary experiences, especially in iconic venues such as Poole’s Diner, famous for its modern take on traditional dishes.
Raleigh vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Food is a vital component of making an area feel like home. This restaurant comparison in Raleigh and Portland will help guide you to potentially find your new favorite eateries by drawing parallels from your current hometown.
| Raleigh | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Angus Barn | Fore Street | Known for its upscale dining and wood-fired dishes |
| Beasley's Chicken + Honey | Hot Suppa | Famous for comfort food and community feel |
| Stanbury | Central Provisions | Offers creative small plates with local ingredients |
| The Pit Authentic Barbecue | Elsmere BBQ & Wood Grill | Specializes in wood-grilled BBQ offerings |
| Bida Manda | Boda | Celebrated for its unique Southeast Asian-inspired menu |
| Poole's Diner | Duckfat | Revered for innovative fare with an emphasis on fresh and local |
| ZenFish | Miyake | Offers crafted sushi with local, sustainable ingredients |
| Gravy | Street & Co. | Known for its cozy atmosphere and classic seafood dishes |
| Trophy Brewing & Pizza | Oxbow Blending & Bottling | Offers a similar vibe with craft beer and New England-inspired pizza |
| Haymaker | Union | Shares a focus on inventive dishes using regional produce |
Dining in Portland offers a satisfying adventure reminiscent of Raleigh’s diverse food scene. At Fore Street, enjoy an elegant dining experience with signature wood-fired dishes that echo the charm and sophistication of Raleigh's beloved Angus Barn. For those with a taste for comfort and warmth, Hot Suppa delivers the familiar, hearty fare that fans of Beasley's Chicken + Honey love. If exotic and innovative fare is more your style, Boda crafts unique Southeast Asian-inspired plates that draw parallels to the culinary creativity found at Bida Manda. Each of these selections emphasizes local flavor and community ambiance, providing you with a comforting yet exciting taste of home.
Ready to start your move?
Raleigh vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's important to know how Raleigh, NC and Portland, ME compare. Evaluating costs, architecture, and lifestyle will help you decide which city fits best for your needs. A close look at these elements can reveal which location aligns with your lifestyle and budget.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial | New England Cottage |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, large yards | Water views, historic charm |
When considering a move to either Raleigh or Portland, understanding the housing landscape is crucial. In Raleigh, affordability shines through with a lower median home price and rent, which offers financial flexibility. On the other hand, Portland offers higher walkability and bikeability scores, fostering an active lifestyle that might be appealing if you enjoy exploring on foot or by bike. Known for its charming New England Cottage architecture, Portland boasts a historic charm enhanced by beautiful water views. Evaluate these factors to find which city better aligns with your housing needs and lifestyle preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, ME
1. Munjoy Hill : With its close proximity to the Eastern Promenade, this vibrant neighborhood offers easy access to parks and walking trails that you and your pet will love exploring together.
2. West End : Known for its tree-lined streets and pet-friendly cafes, the West End is a welcoming community with plenty of spots for you and your furry friend to enjoy, like the popular Tandem Coffee + Bakery.
3. East End : This neighborhood boasts several parks and open spaces that are ideal for pets, and you can often find other pet owners mingling at Rising Tide Brewing Company, which welcomes leashed dogs in their outdoor beer garden.
Raleigh vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When moving from Raleigh, NC to Portland, ME , understanding the weather differences helps you adapt to your new environment. Knowing how temperature, precipitation, and other factors compare can ease your transition, making the relocation experience smoother and more predictable.
Raleigh, NC
Portland, ME
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Portland, ME
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Raleigh, NC
Portland, ME
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Raleigh, NC
Portland, ME
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Raleigh | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes | Snowstorms |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Transitioning from Raleigh to Portland introduces a significant change in winter climate. In Portland, you can expect cooler temperatures with average lows dropping to 13°F compared to Raleigh's milder 32°F. The substantial increase in snowfall in Portland, at 68 inches annually, compared to Raleigh's minimal 6 inches, is a noteworthy contrast. While the humidity levels are slightly higher in Portland, the air quality there is generally better, resulting in a more refreshing atmosphere. Be prepared for fewer hurricanes but be aware of the potential for intense snowstorms during the winter months.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Raleigh to Portland
When relocating from one city to another, it is crucial to understand the financial differences that will impact your day-to-day life. This comparison aims to highlight the key economic disparities between Raleigh, NC and Portland, ME , offering insights into what you can expect in your new location.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $74,612 | $70,244 |
| Cost of Living Index | 98.2 | 116.5 |
| State Income Tax | 5.25% | 7.15% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.80% | 1.20% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 7.25% | 5.50% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tech, Education, Healthcare | Healthcare, Tourism, Fishing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Low | Low |
| Homelessness | Low | Moderate |
Relocating to Portland from Raleigh can affect your wallet in several ways. While Raleigh residents enjoy a lower cost of living index, Portland's higher cost reflects in everyday expenses from groceries to housing. However, state income taxes are higher in Maine, potentially impacting your take-home pay. On the flip side, Portland offers a generally lower average sales tax, slightly benefiting consumers. It's essential to consider these factors thoroughly to plan and adjust your budget for living in Maine.
Raleigh vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider relocating to a new city, understanding cultural and social landscapes is crucial. This guide offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, highlighting the comparison of the politics between Raleigh & Portland.
| Raleigh | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Moderate-Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Governed by a council-manager system | City manager system, high civic engagement |
| Religion | Predominantly Christian | More secular, diverse beliefs |
Relocating to Portland from Raleigh may mean adjusting to a more liberal environment politically. While Raleigh has a moderate to liberal political climate, Portland leans more distinctly liberal, reflecting its high level of civic engagement where city issues are often prioritized through community participation. In terms of religion, Raleigh's population is predominantly Christian, with numerous churches like the historic St. Paul’s anchoring its faith community. On the other hand, Portland offers a more secular atmosphere, marked by a variety of belief systems and an array of spiritual communities. The shift in cultural and political dynamics can be significant, but it also opens the door to new experiences and perspectives as you embrace life in the northeast.
Raleigh vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
To better understand how your daily commute might change, here is a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Raleigh & Portland . It aims to provide insight into what you can expect when driving or using public transit in both cities.
| Comparison | Raleigh | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 20 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
When you move to Portland, you'll likely notice less traffic congestion compared to Raleigh, making your commutes potentially shorter and less stressful. Public transit options are more robust in Portland, with higher availability and better coverage, which gives you the flexibility to rely less on a personal vehicle. This might be beneficial as Portland offers greater walkability and biking culture, enhanced by its scenic views and an array of local establishments to explore, such as the Old Port district and Eastern Promenade trails. The convenience of public transit in Portland allows you to comfortably navigate the city without a car, affording you the opportunity to discover new surroundings with ease.
Additional Resources
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Popular Raleigh to Maine Routes
Popular Moving Resources
