Best Columbus to Salem Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Columbus to Salem and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 2,587 mile move from Ohio to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 33 Columbus to Salem 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 $2,500 - $9,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Columbus compared to Salem. 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 Columbus to Salem 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 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.28 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
3 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
4 | Manifest Shipping Llc | 9.18 | 9.35 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
5 | Moyer's Movers | 8.93 | 9.15 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
Cost to Move from Columbus to Salem
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 2,587 miles from Columbus, OH to Salem, OR will cost on average $3,981 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Columbus to Salem move is roughly $9,622. 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 | $2,669 | 300 ft³ | 8.90 |
1 Bedroom | $3,981 | 450 ft³ | 8.85 |
2 Bedrooms | $6,598 | 750 ft³ | 8.80 |
3 Bedrooms | $9,622 | 1100 ft³ | 8.75 |
4 Bedrooms | $13,915 | 1600 ft³ | 8.70 |
5+ Bedrooms | $15,565 | 1800 ft³ | 8.65 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salem to Columbus guide.
Compare the 5 Best Columbus to Salem 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) |

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

66 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) |

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) |

Moyer's Movers
Newark, OH, 43055
About Moyer's Movers
Moyer’s Movers has been moving families and businesses across Ohio since 2004. This locally owned company can handle all types of...
Services
- Residential and commercial moving
- Long-distance moves across Ohio
- Full pack and unpack services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2523566 / 885535 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 58,800 (2023) |

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.
Columbus vs. Salem Neighborhood Comparison
Making a move to a new city can be a daunting task, especially when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Columbus, OH & Salem, OR, using the neighborhoods you know to introduce you to those you'll want to get to know. By identifying the most similar neighborhood in your new city, we aim to make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
Columbus | Salem | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
German Village | South Central | Historic charm, pedestrian-friendly |
Short North | Central Area | Arts, culture, and nightlife |
Clintonville | Grant | Family-friendly with community events |
Victorian Village | Fairmount Park | Historical homes, scenic streets |
Italian Village | Highland | Up-and-coming, vibrant community |
Upper Arlington | West Salem | Upscale, established neighborhood |
Bexley | Englewood | Affluent area with educational institutions |
Grandview Heights | Sunnyslope | Lively with great local dining |
Franklinton | Northgate | Innovative with an artistic scene |
Olde Towne East | HIGHLAND | Historical districts with a modern twist |
If you're captivated by the historic charm and pedestrian-friendly streets of German Village, you'll find a similar vibe in Salem's South Central. This neighborhood boasts a rich history mirrored in its architecture, offering a cozy and welcoming environment. Art and culture enthusiasts moving from Short North will be delighted by the Central Area of Salem, where the arts scene is vibrant, and the nightlife is bustling with local eateries and bars, such as The Commodore Lounge. For those who appreciate the family-oriented atmosphere of Clintonville, Grant in Salem offers a tight-knit community feel with frequent community events and picturesque parks ideal for weekend outings. Victorians who loved the scenic streets of Victorian Village will feel right at home in Fairmount Park, where historical homes line the streets, offering a glimpse into Salem's past while providing a serene living space.

Things to Do in Salem
- Stroll through the colorful Bush's Pasture Park
- Discover gothic horrors at Witch's Castle
- Visit the Willamette National Forest
- Book a ticket to an event at El Sinai Center
- Explore craft brews at Gilgamesh Brewing
- Enjoy a show at Elsinore Theatre
- Join a Salem Saturday Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Columbus to Salem
Moving from one city to another is a big decision, and it's important to weigh both the benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the change, highlighting why this transition might be right for you. Columbus, OH to Salem, OR, each city has its own unique pros and cons. Let's dive into the specifics to help you make an informed decision.
- Colder winters
- Less scenic
- Lower walkability
- Fewer outdoor activities
- Milder winters
- More natural beauty
- Higher walkability
- Abundant outdoor activities
- Higher housing costs
- Smaller job market
- Less nightlife
- Fewer major sports events
- More affordable housing
- Larger job market
- Vibrant nightlife
- Better sports scene
Moving from Columbus, OH to Salem, OR, you'll exchange colder winters for Salem’s milder climate, allowing for more year-round outdoor activities, such as hiking in the Silver Falls State Park and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Willamette Valley wine region. Salem's higher walkability means favorite local spots like the Salem Saturday Market are easily accessible, offering farm-fresh produce and artisan crafts. While you might miss Columbus' larger job market and vibrant nightlife, discovering Salem's cozy coffee shops, such as The Ike Box, and the close-knit community feel at local events, can be a refreshing change. Each city offers unique lifestyles and opportunities that cater to different preferences and priorities.
Columbus vs. Salem Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Columbus, OH, and Salem, OR, highlighting the significance of food in understanding the local culture and what life in these areas entails. By comparing the two locations, you'll gain insight into the food scene of your new home.
Columbus | Salem | |
---|---|---|
Most iconic local food item | Buckeye candies | Marionberry pie |
Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Pinot Noir-infused steak |
Most popular street food item | Sausage carts | Taco trucks |
Most popular vegan food | Vegan chili | Tempeh reubens |
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
When you move from Columbus, OH, to Salem, OR, you'll find that both cities offer unique culinary experiences reflective of their local culture and geography. In Columbus, iconic foods like Buckeye candies and a vibrant sausage scene reflect Ohio's traditions and agricultural roots. The city has a dynamic and growing vegan scene, with restaurants like Portia's Café offering innovative plant-based meals. On the other hand, Salem, nestled in the heart of Oregon's wine country, offers a rich array of foods infused with local wines, such as the Pinot Noir-infused steak. Marionberry pie, made with Oregon's state berry, is a must-try. Salem's food scene is characterized by its abundance of food trucks, especially taco trucks that line the streets of downtown Salem. With higher ratings in fitness/health conscientiousness, foodie scene, and vegan friendliness, Salem invites you to explore its fresh, locally-sourced meals and vibrant outdoor dining culture.
Columbus vs. Salem Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Columbus, OH and Salem, OR is designed to help you feel right at home by connecting you with your soon-to-be favorite eateries, inspired by your current culinary favorites in Columbus.
Columbus | Salem | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Lincoln Social Rooftop | Archive Coffee & Bar | Both offer a chic rooftop experience with crafted cocktails |
Northstar Café | Word of Mouth Bistro | Both emphasize organic and locally-sourced ingredients |
Wolf's Ridge Brewing | Gilgamesh Brewing | Both feature a brewpub atmosphere with innovative craft beers and hearty meals |
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Illahe Hills Country Club | Both are known for unique, high-quality flavors in their offerings |
Thurman Cafe | Bo & Vine Burger Bar | Both known for unique takes on classic American burgers |
Katzinger’s Delicatessen | Gerry Frank's Konditorei | Both offer a cozy deli experience with a wide selection of sandwiches and desserts |
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus | Rudy's Steakhouse | Offers a different meat focus but retains a commitment to hearty, traditional meals |
Hot Chicken Takeover | Adam’s Rib Smoke House | Different styles but both focus on high-quality, flavor-packed meat dishes |
The Pearl | DaVinci Ristorante | Both offer an upscale dining experience with a focus on quality ingredients and sophisticated flavors |
Mitchell's Ocean Club | Rafns' | Both are high-end eateries that focus on seafood and steak with a commitment to sustainability and fine dining |
When you're searching for that perfect rooftop vibe to enjoy a sunset and a cocktail, Archive Coffee & Bar in Salem mirrors the ambiance and innovative drink menu found at Lincoln Social Rooftop in Columbus. For a taste of truly local, sustainable fare, the farm-to-table approach of Word of Mouth Bistro stands as Salem's answer to Northstar Café’s fresh and organic menu. And should you crave the warmth of a comforting, hearty meal, look no further than Gilgamesh Brewing in Salem, where the brews are bold and the dishes remind one of the craft and care taken by Wolf's Ridge Brewing.

Ready to start your move?
Columbus vs. Salem Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, it’s crucial to understand how real estate factors such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle compare between Columbus, OH, and Salem, OR. This comparison aims to equip you with essential housing insights, helping you make an informed decision.
Comparison | Columbus | Salem |
---|---|---|
Typical Architecture Style | Colonial and Craftsman | Mid-Century Modern and Bungalow |
Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Open floor plans, hardwood floors | Large backyards, proximity to nature |
In comparing Columbus and Salem, note the notable difference in median home prices and monthly rents, reflecting the unique economic landscapes of each city. Columbus offers an urban lifestyle with a touch of traditional charm found in its prevalent Colonial and Craftsman-style homes. In contrast, Salem offers a slightly higher walkability and bikeability score, indicative of its commitment to accessible urban design, alongside its Mid-Century Modern and Bungalow-style homes that appeal to those who favor a blend of classic and contemporary aesthetics. Salem's real estate listings commonly highlight large backyards and proximity to nature, promising a peaceful retreat within the city limits.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salem, OR
1. West Salem: This area is highly pet-friendly due to its numerous walking trails such as Wallace Marine Park and pet services like Taylor Street OB/GYN Veterinary Clinic.
2. South Salem: Your pet will enjoy South Salem's selection of pet-friendly restaurants and services, including All-In-One Pet Grooming and Garry's Pub which has a pet-friendly patio.
3. Morningside: Known for its large number of dog-friendly parks such as Morningside City Park, this neighborhood also hosts a favorite pet supply store, Petco.
Columbus vs. Salem Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Columbus, OH to Salem, OR , understanding the differences in weather conditions is crucial. This comparison will help prepare you for what to expect in your new environment, from summer highs to the frequency of sunny days.
Columbus, OH
Salem, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Salem, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Columbus, OH
Salem, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Columbus, OH
Salem, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Comparison | Columbus | Salem |
---|---|---|
Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Good |
Natural Disasters | Tornadoes, Severe Storms | Earthquakes, Flooding |
Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Columbus to Salem involves adapting to a milder, more temperate climate, especially during winter when Salem experiences gentler colds and significantly less snowfall. With fewer days of sunshine, expect more overcast days in Salem, which contributes to its lush, green environment but also to higher humidity levels. Understanding these differences ensures a smoother transition and helps you prepare for Salem's unique climate before you arrive.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Columbus to Salem
When planning a move from one city to another, it’s crucial to understand the financial implications . This comparison between Columbus, OH , and Salem, OR , aims to outline the differences in money and finance related aspects to give you a better understanding of how your cost of living and finances might change.
Comparison | Columbus | Salem |
---|---|---|
Avg. Household Income | $58,202 | $63,927 |
Cost of Living Index | 92 | 110.55 |
State Income Tax | 3.33 avg. | 9.9 max. |
Avg. Property Tax | 1.56 | 1.07 |
Avg. Sales Tax | 7.5 | 0 |
Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Government, Agriculture, Manufacturing |
Affluence | Mid-level | Lower-mid |
Poverty | Low | Moderate |
Homelessness | Moderate | High |
Moving from Columbus to Salem, you'll find the cost of living to be higher in Salem, influenced heavily by a greater state income tax rate and an overall higher cost of living index. Despite this, Salem's lack of sales tax can be a relief on day-to-day purchases compared to Columbus's 7.5% average sales tax. However, it is also important to consider the average household income is lower in Salem, which, coupled with higher rates of homelessness, might signal broader economic challenges. Understanding these differences can help better prepare for the financial adjustments needed when relocating.
Columbus vs. Salem Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Columbus, OH to Salem, OR, understanding the community you're transitioning into is crucial. This comparison provides a quick snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Columbus & Salem, offering insight into what you can expect in terms of local culture and values.
Columbus | Salem | |
---|---|---|
Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Lean Democratic |
Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Mixed; progressive and conservative elements |
Religion | Mix of Catholic, Protestant, and non-religious | Mix of Protestant, Catholic, and non-religious |
Transitioning from Columbus, OH to Salem, OR, you'll find both cities share a leaning towards Democratic values, albeit with local nuances. Columbus is widely recognized for its progressive stance on social issues, mirrored in the support for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice initiatives. Salem, while also leaning Democratic, presents a more complex political landscape with a blend of progressive and conservative influences, reflecting in its varied local government policies. The religious landscape in both cities is diverse, accommodating a broad spectrum of beliefs from Protestant and Catholic to non-religious affiliations, offering various faith-based communities for newcomers to join. Connecting with these communities can be a meaningful way to integrate into your new home.
Columbus vs. Salem Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
As you prepare for your move, understanding the comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Columbus & Salem will help you better grasp what your daily commute and dealings with traffic might look like. This will allow you to plan your day more efficiently and decide whether you'll need to rely on a car or if public transport options will be sufficient for your needs.
Comparison | Columbus | Salem |
---|---|---|
Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 24 |
Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Easier than Columbus |
In Columbus, you might find the average commute time slightly less stressful, hovering around 23 minutes, but faced with moderate traffic congestion, it's advisable to have access to a car. Public transportation is available but might not be as convenient for everyone. On the other hand, Salem offers less congestion, making it slightly easier to navigate the city. Public transit is marginally better, making it feasible for some to go carless. This info can guide you on whether to maintain a vehicle or explore public transportation options upon your move.



Additional Resources
Columbus Moving Services
Popular Columbus to Oregon Routes
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