Best Portland to Los Angeles Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Los Angeles and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 958 mile move from Oregon to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 48 Portland to Los Angeles 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 Best California Movers), 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 Los Angeles. 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 Los Angeles Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best California Movers | 9.52 | 9.73 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Moving Pro, Inc. | 9.45 | 9.01 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.28 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Comfortable Moving | 9.15 | 9.55 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Portland to Los Angeles
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 958 miles from Portland, OR to Los Angeles, CA will cost on average $2,596 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Los Angeles move is roughly $6,236. 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 | $1,746 | 300 ft³ | 5.82 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,596 | 450 ft³ | 5.77 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,289 | 750 ft³ | 5.72 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,236 | 1100 ft³ | 5.67 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,990 | 1600 ft³ | 5.62 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $10,024 | 1800 ft³ | 5.57 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Los Angeles to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Los Angeles Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Best California Movers
Glendale, CA, 91206
About Best California Movers
Best California Movers is a family-owned moving company based in Southern California, with over six years of experience in the industry....
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3489907 / 1173381 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 157,000 (2023) |
Moving Pro, Inc.
557 Vernon Ave
Venice, CA, 90291
About Moving Pro, Inc.
Moving Pro, Inc. takes a transparent, customized, and personal approach to moving that puts its clients first. This family-owned and operated...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Car Transportation
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1864442 / 675888 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 26,800 (2023) |
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) |
Comfortable Moving
3305 Main St # 023
Vancouver, WA, 98663
About Comfortable Moving
Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in Vancouver, WA,...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3236736 / 1015844 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 1 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 14,000 (2020) |
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. Los Angeles Neighborhood Comparison
When planning a move from Portland, OR to Los Angeles, CA, it’s helpful to find areas similar to what you’re accustomed to. This guide aims to compare the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Los Angeles, CA , offering you a smoother transition by pairing Portland's top neighborhoods with their Los Angeles equivalents based on their ambiance, community, and lifestyle offerings.
| Portland | Los Angeles | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | Arts District | Vibrant arts scene, lofts |
| Alberta Arts District | Silver Lake | Eclectic, artsy vibe |
| Mississippi | Highland Park | Diverse, historic, artsy |
| Nob Hill | Los Feliz | Charming, walkable, historic homes |
| Ladd’s Addition | West Hollywood | Unique layout, vibrant nightlife |
| Hawthorne | Venice | Bohemian, trendy shops, walkability |
| North Williams | Abbot Kinney | Hip, sophisticated, boutique shops |
| Laurelhurst | Studio City | Family-friendly, beautiful parks |
| Eastmoreland | Encino | Upscale, peaceful, green spaces |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Los Feliz | Quaint, mix of old and new |
If you're drawn to the Pearl District for its thriving art scene and loft-style living, you'll find the Arts District in LA to echo that same urban creativity. For those who enjoy the eclectic and artsy vibe of the Alberta Arts District, Silver Lake offers a similar mix of indie boutiques, trendy cafes, and a vibrant art community. Meanwhile, the historic charm and walkability of Nob Hill are mirrored in Los Feliz, known for its picturesque streets and classic California architecture. Venice, with its unique blend of bohemian and upscale elements, mirrors Hawthorne's trendy and laid-back atmosphere, offering beachside living with a rich array of shops and restaurants like the renowned Venice Beach Boardwalk. For families and those seeking a more suburban vibe similar to Laurelhurst, Studio City presents an inviting community complete with lush parks, such as the scenic Wilacre Park, and a warm suburban feel.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Los Angeles
Moving from one city to another is always a blend of give-and-take, especially when considering the transition from Portland, OR to Los Angeles, CA. This comparison aims to shed light on the pros and cons to provide an honest reflection of what this relocation entails, helping you weigh the good against the bad attributes effectively.
Portland, OR- Smaller job market
- Less diverse cuisine
- Lower average temperatures
- Less nightlife
Los Angeles, CA- Larger job market
- More diverse cuisine
- Warmer climate
- Thriving nightlife
Los Angeles, CA- More urban
- Higher population
- More expensive housing
- Less access to nature
Portland, OR- Lush green scenery
- Smaller population
- More affordable housing
- Proximity to nature
Moving from Portland to Los Angeles opens up a variety of culinary experiences, with LA boasting renowned restaurants like Guelaguetza for authentic Oaxacan cuisine, and Bestia for an Italian gastronomical journey. The adjustment from Portland’s lush, green scenery to LA’s more urban landscape is significant, though LA compensates with iconic sights such as Griffith Park and the Hollywood Sign. While LA’s vibrant nightlife may offer more options with venues like Avalon Hollywood and The Mint, it's important to factor in the city’s higher cost of living, particularly in popular areas like Santa Monica and Beverly Hills. The transition also means access to a larger job market, but prepares to navigate a more populous cityscape.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Food Guide
Food captures the essence of a city's culture and lifestyle, making the diner's experience uniquely local. By comparing the local cuisine between Portland & Los Angeles , you'll gain insights into what culinary delights await you in both cities, allowing for a smoother transition to your new home.
| Portland | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Voodoo Doughnut | Street Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Belly | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Food Carts | Food Trucks |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu Scramble | Vegan Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In moving from Portland to Los Angeles, you'll transition from the quirky donut shops and extensive vegan options of the Pacific Northwest to the vibrant street taco stands and health-conscious eateries of Southern California. Los Angeles boasts a diverse culinary scene, from the traditional carne asada tacos in East L.A. to high-end dining experiences in West Hollywood, like the critically acclaimed n/naka. The emphasis on fitness and health is evident in both cities, but Los Angeles takes it to another level with its abundance of outdoor cafes and vegan restaurants catering to every dietary need. This array of dining options ensures your taste buds will never grow weary exploring the City of Angels.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite dining spots is key to feeling at home in a new city. This Portland to Los Angeles restaurant comparison aims to make your transition as deliciously seamless as possible, guiding you to establishments that echo the essence of your current Portland favorites.
| Portland | Los Angeles | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Republique | High-end dining with a creative twist |
| Screen Door | Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles | Iconic comfort food |
| Pok Pok | Night + Market | Authentic Thai cuisine |
| Salt & Straw | Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Artisanal ice cream flavors |
| Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen | Pho Saigon Pearl | Authentic Vietnamese dishes |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | RiceBox | Modern take on classic rice dishes |
| Tasty n Alder | Republique | Diverse American cuisine with an upscale twist |
| Blue Star Donuts | Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee | High-quality, innovative donuts |
| Voodoo Doughnut | Donut Friend | Eccentric and unique donut flavors |
| Pine State Biscuits | The Hart and The Hunter | Southern-inspired comfort food |
Exploring new eateries is a pivotal moment in your move from Portland to Los Angeles. When the craving for comfort food hits, Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles offers a taste of home with its iconic dishes, reminiscent of Screen Door's hearty offerings. For those nights craving Asian fare, stepping into Night + Market can transport you back to Pok Pok with its authentic Thai cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. More than just food, each restaurant brings a piece of Portland's eclectic dining scene to your new Los Angeles life, making the transition a little easier and a lot more delicious. Each establishment, from Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams to Republique, not only provides a gastronomical experience but also honors the spirit of community and innovation found in both cities.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Los Angeles Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal consideration in relocation. Understanding how housing compares between Portland, OR, and Los Angeles, CA, sheds light on costs, lifestyle, and accessibility, guiding your transition to a new city seamlessly.
| Comparison | Portland | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Northwest Craftsman | Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Eco-friendly, Proximity to nature | Luxury amenities, Close to entertainment industry |
Moving from Portland to Los Angeles introduces a shift in housing expectations and lifestyle. In Los Angeles, while the median home price and rent are significantly higher, the city compensates with its vibrant urban lifestyle, coveted location near the hub of the entertainment industry, and luxury amenities in many properties. Though Los Angeles scores lower in walkability and bikeability, it's famed for its Spanish Revival architecture—a unique charm that attracts many. Meanwhile, Portland offers a more affordable living situation, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendliness and proximity to natural landscapes, reflecting the city's dedication to sustainability and outdoor living.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA
1. Studio City: With its multitude of pet-friendly cafes and the famous Laurel Canyon Dog Park, Studio City welcomes you and your furry friend with open arms.
2. Silver Lake: Known for its hip vibe, Silver Lake boasts an array of dog-friendly restaurants and a renowned dog park, Silver Lake Dog Park, making it a perfect place for pet owners.
3. West Hollywood: This neighborhood shines for pet lovers, highlighting pet-friendly establishments and the much-loved West Hollywood Park, which includes areas for dogs to play freely.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Weather Considerations
When considering a move from Portland, OR to Los Angeles, CA, it's crucial to understand how the weather will shift. This comparison aims to prepare you for the changes in climate and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
Portland, OR
Los Angeles, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Los Angeles, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Los Angeles, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate to Poor |
| Natural Disasters | Rain, Snow | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from the cooler, more temperate climate of Portland to the warmer, drier conditions of Los Angeles will demand some adaptation. Los Angeles enjoys nearly double the days of sunshine compared to Portland and significantly milder winters, making it a haven for those seeking year-round outdoor activities. However, this comes with the trade-off of higher annual UV index ratings and lower air quality due to smog and wildfires. It's also worth noting the stark contrast in natural disaster risks, with Los Angeles being prone to earthquakes and wildfires, starkly different from the rain and occasional snowfall of Portland.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Los Angeles
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding the financial implications is crucial to prepare for the change in cost of living. This comparison between Portland, OR, and Los Angeles, CA, outlines key financial elements to help you navigate the transition smoothly.
| Comparison | Portland | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $70,372 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.91 | 0.76 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 9.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Entertainment, Manufacturing, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Significant | Severe |
Moving from Portland to Los Angeles, you'll notice significant changes in the cost of living and taxes. While both cities boast robust economies, the industries dominating each region differ, with technology and healthcare being crucial in Portland and entertainment and tourism playing key roles in Los Angeles. Despite the higher average household income in Portland, Los Angeles' affluence levels are labeled higher due to its vast economic size and opportunities, offset by higher living costs and taxes. Poverty and homelessness are critical issues in both cities, though Los Angeles experiences these more severely. Understanding these financial dynamics is vital for a smooth transition.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Political & Religious Comparison
As you plan your move from Portland, OR to Los Angeles, CA, understanding the comparison of the politics between Portland & Los Angeles provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This comparison helps you anticipate the community vibe and values in your new home.
| Portland | Los Angeles | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Progressive | Liberal/Progressive |
| Local Politics | Green/environmentally focused policies | Diverse issues including environmental, homelessness, and immigration |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | Diverse religious affiliations |
In both Portland and Los Angeles, you'll find a politically liberal and progressive population, though the specific local political concerns vary. Portland's green and environmentally focused initiatives reflect its residents' strong passion for sustainability. Meanwhile, Los Angeles navigates a broader spectrum of political issues, including environmental policies, addressing homelessness, and immigrant rights, reflecting its larger and more diverse demographic. Religion in Los Angeles presents a tapestry of beliefs, accommodating a wider range of religious affiliations compared to Portland, which is known for having a larger percentage of residents who identify as less religiously affiliated. This diversity in Los Angeles offers a vibrant community where a myriad of cultures and beliefs coexist harmoniously.
Portland vs. Los Angeles Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Portland, OR to Los Angeles, CA requires adjusting to new daily routines, including understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Portland & Los Angeles. This comparison aims to equip you with knowledge on what to expect regarding commute times, traffic congestion, public transit availability, and the feasibility of living without a car in both cities.
| Comparison | Portland | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.7 | 29.6 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible | Challenging |
In both cities, the average commute times and traffic congestion levels are significant factors to consider when planning your daily travel. Portland offers a more extensive and accessible public transportation system, rated highly among U.S. cities, making it feasible for residents to get by without owning a car. In contrast, Los Angeles, despite improvements, has a public transport system that doesn't fully accommodate the sprawling layout of the city, making car ownership almost a necessity. Additionally, L.A.'s traffic congestion is notoriously higher, which can significantly affect your daily commute experience.
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