Best Portland to Salinas Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Salinas and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 722 mile move from Oregon to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 26 Portland to Salinas moving companies and more than 15,000 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 $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Portland compared to Salinas. 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 Salinas Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 3 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | Mod Movers | 8.80 | 8.1 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 5 | Poulos Moving Systems | 8.34 | 8.48 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Portland to Salinas
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 722 miles from Portland, OR to Salinas, CA will cost on average $2,395 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Salinas move is roughly $5,745. 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 | $1,612 | 300 ft³ | 5.37 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,395 | 450 ft³ | 5.32 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,955 | 750 ft³ | 5.27 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,745 | 1100 ft³ | 5.22 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,276 | 1600 ft³ | 5.17 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,221 | 1800 ft³ | 5.12 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salinas to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Salinas 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) |
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) |
Mod Movers
1118 Airport Way STE 100
Monterey, CA, 93940
About Mod Movers
Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Interstate Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2983026 / 1294330 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
| Registered Drivers | 4 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |
Poulos Moving Systems
222 Commission St
Salinas, CA, 93901
About Poulos Moving Systems
A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...
Services
- Local Moves
- Office Moves
- Intrastate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2618126 / 1016606 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 39,036 (2022) |
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. Salinas Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to finding a neighborhood that feels like home. To ease this transition, we have created a guide that compares local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Salinas, CA. By examining the characteristics of popular neighborhoods in Portland, we'll identify their closest matches in Salinas, helping you familiarize yourself with your new surroundings using your current city as a reference.
| Portland | Salinas | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | South Salinas | Vibrant, artsy community |
| Alberta Arts District | Oldtown Salinas | Cultural, creative hub |
| Mississippi Ave | North Salinas | Trendy, diverse eateries |
| Nob Hill | Maple Park | Historic homes, upscale dining |
| Eastmoreland | CreekBridge | Family-friendly, parks galore |
| Laurelhurst | University Park | Serene, lots of green space |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Los Olivos | Quaint, community-oriented |
| Hawthorne | Natividad | Eclectic shopping, local cafes |
| Ladd's Addition | Monterey Park | Unique layout, historic |
| Forest Park | Toro Park | Expansive natural spaces, trails |
If you adore the bustling vibe of Portland's Pearl District, with its myriad of art galleries, boutiques, and eateries, you'll find a kindred spirit in South Salinas. Here, the vibrant community life is highlighted by local events and creative spaces. For lovers of historic charm and lush landscapes, moving from Eastmoreland to CreekBridge will feel seamless. CreekBridge boasts family-friendly parks where outdoor activities abound, much like the scenic nature of Eastmoreland. Meanwhile, the creativity and diverse dining options that define Mississippi Ave find their match in North Salinas, offering a tapestry of flavors from around the world without leaving the neighborhood. These comparisons are crafted to help you navigate your transition smoothly, with familiarity and excitement for what awaits in Salinas.
Things to Do in Salinas
Explore Pinnacles National Park.- Enjoy wine tasting at River Road Wine Trail.
- Visit the Monterey County Agricultural & Rural Life Museum.
- Stroll along Salinas River Walk.
- Attend California Rodeo Salinas.
- Shop at Oldtown Salinas.
- Take a class at Heidi’s Studio.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Salinas
Moving from Portland, OR to Salinas, CA, requires a nuanced understanding of what you're leaving behind and what awaits you. This comparison aims to highlight the pros and cons of such a relocation, providing an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this move. By examining these factors, you're equipped to make an informed decision about your next chapter.
Portland, OR- Higher living costs
- Less sunshine
- Longer commute times
- Less agricultural access
Salinas, CA- More affordable housing
- Better weather
- Shorter commutes
- Fresh local produce
Salinas, CA- Fewer cultural venues
- Smaller parks
- Less coffee variety
- Smaller tech industry
Portland, OR- Vibrant arts scene
- Vast green spaces
- Rich coffee culture
- Larger tech community
In the process of moving from Portland to Salinas, you’ll notice several changes, particularly in lifestyle. While Portland boasts a vibrant arts scene with renowned institutions like the Portland Art Museum, Salinas offers a rich literary history as the hometown of John Steinbeck, with spots such as the National Steinbeck Center paying homage to his legacy. Portland’s green spaces like Forest Park offer extensive trails for outdoor enthusiasts, whereas Salinas, nestled in one of the country's most fertile agricultural areas, provides unmatched access to fresh, locally-sourced produce at places like the Monterey Bay Farmers Markets. While the shift from Portland’s larger tech community to Salinas’s smaller, growing tech scene may require adjustment, the proximity to Silicon Valley offers unique opportunities for professionals. Each city presents its own set of advantages that cater to different preferences and lifestyles.
Portland vs. Salinas Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Salinas serves to inform you about the food scene in both cities. Food plays a critical role in understanding local culture and lifestyle. This guide will help you navigate the culinary differences and specialties as you transition from one city to another.
| Portland | Salinas | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Voodoo Doughnut | Artichoke |
| Most popular meat dish | Portlandia Steak | Carne Asada |
| Most popular street food item | Food Cart Pods | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Vegan Ceviche |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, the vegan scene is particularly notable, with establishments like Petunia's Pies & Pastries serving up mouthwatering vegan and gluten-free treats. The food cart pods scattered around the city, such as those in the Pearl District, offer a diverse range of street food options from around the world, making it a vibrant landscape for foodies. Moving to Salinas, you'll find that the city boasts an affinity for fresh, local produce, with artichokes and strawberries being staple ingredients thanks to the region's rich agricultural heritage. Salinas' Mexican cuisine, particularly its tacos found in East Salinas, is authentic and a must-try for new residents. Both cities offer unique dining experiences reflective of their local culture and culinary strengths.
Portland vs. Salinas Restaurant Comparison
Food is a cornerstone for making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison is designed to help you transition from Portland, OR, to Salinas, CA, by finding your new favorite eateries . Whether you're looking for a high-end dining experience or a casual bite that hits the spot, use this guide to discover Salinas's culinary scene, echoing the diverse flavors of Portland.
| Portland | Salinas | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Giorgio's | Intimate fine dining with a focus on exquisite flavors and wine pairings |
| Pok Pok | Rice+ Noodles Asian Kitchen | Authentic Asian flavors with a strong focus on Thai dishes |
| Screen Door | The Farm Fresh Deli | Comfort food and southern classics with a Californian twist |
| Tasty n Alder | Monterey Coast Brewing | Creative gastropub fare with a local flair and diverse menu |
| Ken's Artisan Pizza | Eagle Restaurant | Known for its wood-fired pizzas and a cozy, inviting atmosphere |
| Nong’s Khao Man Gai | Salinas City BBQ | While known for BBQ, they offer a comforting, homestyle Asian chicken dish reminiscent of Khao Man Gai |
| Blue Star Donuts | Red’s Donuts | An iconic donut shop with a wide variety of classic and innovative flavors |
| Salt & Straw | Rosas Bakery | Offers unique and traditional ice cream flavors in a cozy neighborhood setting |
| Apizza Scholls | Main Street Bakery & Cafe | Serves up artisanal pizzas alongside fresh, homemade bakery delights |
| Voodoo Doughnut | Dunkin’ | Provides a quirky doughnut selection with some unique twists on classics |
While exploring Salinas, you'll find that places like Giorgio's resonate with the refined and intimate dining experiences of Le Pigeon in Portland, emphasizing quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. Similarly, those who have savored the bold Thai flavors at Pok Pok will appreciate the authenticity and attention to detail at Rice+ Noodles Asian Kitchen. It's not just about finding a meal; it's about discovering spaces that echo the charm and diversity of your Portland favorites, from the artisanal pizzas at Ken's to the iconic treats at Blue Star Donuts. In Salinas, each restaurant, from Eagle Restaurant’s cozy ambiance to Red’s Donuts’ inventive flavors, aims to capture a piece of what you cherished back in Portland, offering you a taste of home in your new city.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Salinas Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate stands as a crucial factor in relocation decisions, and understanding how Portland, OR, and Salinas, CA, compare in terms of housing can illuminate your moving journey. From the cost of living to local architecture and beyond, a closer look at these elements will guide your next steps.
| Comparison | Portland | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Craftsman | Spanish Revival and Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Green spaces, Proximity to coffee shops | Agricultural community, Close to wineries |
Moving from Portland to Salinas introduces you to a different housing market scene with a significant increase in the median home price and rent. While Portland offers a vibrant urban lifestyle enriched by green spaces and coffee shops, highlighted in real estate listings, Salinas presents a quieter, agricultural-centered community where proximity to wineries is often a featured advantage. Architectural styles also shift from the Victorian and Craftsman homes of Portland to the Spanish Revival and Ranch homes that are more common in Salinas, reflecting the cultural and climatic differences between the two cities. Whether you value walkability and bikeability or prioritize a specific urban lifestyle, comprehending these factors will help in making an informed decision tailored to your preferences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salinas, CA
1. South Salinas: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, South Salinas offers several parks and open spaces where your pets can enjoy a walk, including the popular Central Park where dogs can roam freely in designated off-leash areas.
2. CreekBridge: This neighborhood is recognized for its walkable paths and proximity to the Natividad Creek Park, a beautiful place for dog owners looking for scenic walks and outdoor activities to enjoy with their furry friends.
3. Laurelwood: Laurelwood stands out for its quiet streets and access to pet-friendly facilities, including several dog parks and the nearby Petco for all your pet's needs, making it a convenient and pleasant neighborhood for pet owners.
Portland vs. Salinas Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another means adapting to new weather patterns. This table compares the climates of Portland, OR and Salinas, CA, offering insights into what you can expect in terms of temperature, sunshine, and more, emphasizing the purpose of the charts to enhance your understanding of the shift in weather.
Portland, OR
Salinas, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Salinas, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Salinas, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Salinas, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Rainstorms, Floods | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Portland offers a cooler summer experience with a higher average humidity, Salinas boasts more sunny days which can significantly impact your daily life and activities. In Salinas, you'll find mild winters and moderate air quality, contrasting Portland’s chillier winter months and cleaner air. Understanding these differences is crucial for adjusting your wardrobe and planning outdoor activities. Additionally, the significant variance in annual rainfall and the presence of different natural disaster risks reflect the importance of preparing for the local climate's unique challenges.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Salinas
When deciding to move, it's crucial to grasp how your finances will be impacted. This comparison aims to shed light on the cost of living and economy between Portland and Salinas, providing insights into what you can expect in terms of money and finance in your new locale.
| Comparison | Portland | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $80,154 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.91 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 9.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Agriculture, Manufacturing, Retail |
| Affluence | Moderate | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Significant | Considerable |
Switching from Portland to Salinas, you'll encounter different financial landscapes. Although the average household income in Salinas is lower than in Portland, the cost of living index is higher, primarily due to housing costs. While Oregon benefits from no sales tax, moving to California exposes you to a steep 9.25% sales tax in Salinas. Furthermore, state income tax rates are higher in California, potentially affecting your take-home pay. It's also worth noting the stark difference in primary industries, with Salinas leaning heavily on agriculture, which could influence job opportunities depending on your field.
Portland vs. Salinas Political & Religious Comparison
This guide serves to provide you with a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Portland & Salinas , as well as the religious landscape. Understanding the typical makeup of the population in both cities will help you better anticipate the community vibe you're moving into.
| Portland | Salinas | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Moderately Liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive Policies | Agricultural Interests |
| Religion | Unaffiliated/Non-religious | Catholic Majority |
Portland is known for its liberal stance and progressive policies that strongly support environmental sustainability and social justice. On the other hand, Salinas, while maintaining a moderately liberal viewpoint, places a significant emphasis on agricultural interests, owing to its position in one of the most productive agricultural regions in California. When it comes to religion, Portland has a larger percentage of unaffiliated or non-religious residents, contrasting with Salinas’s Catholic majority, reflective of its diverse community and historical roots in Spanish colonialism. Understanding these nuances will aid you in acclimating to your new home with ease.
Portland vs. Salinas Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Portland, OR to Salinas, CA requires adapting to new driving and commuting dynamics. This comparison focuses on the differences in traffic and transportation options between Portland & Salinas to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like.
| Comparison | Portland | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Challenging |
In Portland, you'll find a well-established public transit system that makes navigating the city possible without a car, although owning one might still be convenient. Commute times and traffic congestion are relatively manageable, especially when compared to larger urban areas. Salinas, while having less traffic congestion overall, relies more heavily on personal vehicles due to its more limited public transit options. Living in Salinas without a car could be more challenging, and depending on where you live and work, a car might be necessary for daily commutes. Adjusting to the transportation landscape of your new city will be an important part of your move.
Additional Resources
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