Best Portland to San Francisco Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
Trusted. Licensed. Insured.
If you're moving from Portland to San Francisco and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 635 mile move from Oregon to California go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 25 Portland to San Francisco 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 OCD Moving Services LLC), 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 San Francisco. 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 San Francisco Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | 9.47 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | 9.49 | Authorized For 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 San Francisco
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 635 miles from Portland, OR to San Francisco, CA will cost on average $2,321 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to San Francisco move is roughly $5,564. 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 | $1,562 | 300 ft³ | 5.21 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,321 | 450 ft³ | 5.16 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,831 | 750 ft³ | 5.11 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $5,564 | 1100 ft³ | 5.06 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,013 | 1600 ft³ | 5.01 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $8,925 | 1800 ft³ | 4.96 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from San Francisco to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to San Francisco Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
OCD Moving Services LLC
5914 Cobblestone Ct
El Sobrante, CA, 94803
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2597230 / 911812 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 6 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 153,000 (2022) |
Bay - L.A. Express Moving
8 22nd St
San Francisco, CA, 94107
About Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in...
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1396171 / 530464 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 60,000 (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
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. San Francisco Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into another world, but finding similarities in the local neighborhoods can ease the transition. By comparing the popular neighborhoods in Portland, OR & San Francisco, CA , this guide aims to help you navigate the nuances of your new urban landscape, simplifying your move by mapping out where you might feel most at home.
| Portland | San Francisco | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | SoMa | Trendy, artsy vibe with lofts |
| Alberta Arts District | Mission District | Bohemian, rich in culture |
| Northwest District | Marina | Historic homes, lively atmosphere |
| Ladd’s Addition | Presidio Heights | Quiet, with exclusive feel |
| Mississippi | Haight-Ashbury | Hip, with unique boutiques |
| Laurelhurst | Pacific Heights | Upscale, with beautiful views |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Inner Richmond | Family-friendly, diverse eateries |
| Hawthorne | Cole Valley | Quaint, community-focused |
| Eastmoreland | Sea Cliff | Elite, with stunning landscapes |
| St. Johns | Bernal Heights | Eclectic, with great city views |
If you're captivated by the eclectic mix of boutiques and coffee shops in Mississippi, San Francisco’s Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, with its iconic hippie history, vibrant street art, and unique boutiques like Amoeba Music, offers a similar vibrant community vibe. Meanwhile, Laurelhurst's picturesque streets and craftsman homes find their match in Pacific Heights, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge at Alta Plaza Park, or indulge in fine dining at upscale restaurants like Spruce. For those who love the family-oriented and tranquil atmosphere of Sellwood-Moreland, San Francisco’s Inner Richmond offers an array of diverse cuisines, with must-visit spots like Cinderella Bakery & Café blending a cozy atmosphere with delicious Russian dishes.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to San Francisco
Moving from one city to another presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to explore the shift from Portland, OR, to San Francisco, CA, providing a realistic depiction of the advantages and disadvantages inherent in such a relocation. By examining the pros and cons, this guide seeks to offer a balanced perspective on what this move entails.
Portland, OR- Less job opportunities
- Smaller city vibe
- Fewer cultural venues
- Lower overall costs
- Mild weather
San Francisco, CA- More tech jobs
- Diverse urban experience
- Rich cultural scene
- Higher cost of living
- Foggy climate
San Francisco, CA- Fast-paced life
- Fewer parks
- Expensive real estate
- More impersonal
- Heavy traffic
Portland, OR- Laid-back lifestyle
- Green spaces
- Affordable housing
- Community feel
- Bike-friendly
The move from Portland to San Francisco carries significant changes in lifestyle and environment. For example, while Portland is known for its relaxed atmosphere and ample green spaces such as Forest Park, San Francisco offers a bustling urban experience with landmarks such as SFMOMA and Golden Gate Park, albeit with fewer overall green spaces. San Francisco's cultural scene is vibrant, with numerous restaurants like Tartine Bakery and sights such as the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The tech job market in SF is significantly larger, yet the cost of living is also higher, affecting housing affordability. Each city offers unique benefits, and this move requires careful consideration of what priorities matter most to you.
Portland vs. San Francisco Food Guide
This comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & San Francisco serves as a vital guide for those planning to move. Understanding the food scene is crucial since it reflects the local culture and daily life. Let this serve as your culinary compass to the flavors and culinary landmarks that await in your new home.
| Portland | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Voodoo Doughnut | Sourdough Bread |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Belly | Cioppino |
| Most popular street food item | Food Carts | Mission Burrito |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Portland and San Francisco both offer vibrant and distinct food scenes that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. In Portland, you'll find the streets lined with food carts, such as those in the bustling areas of Hawthorne or Mississippi Ave, offering everything from gourmet sandwiches to international delicacies. San Francisco, on the other hand, prides itself on its fresh sourdough bread and bay area seafood, with iconic dishes such as the Mission Burrito found in the Mission District. Notably, both cities score high in terms of health consciousness and vegan options, with Portland slightly edging out with its variety of vegan establishments. Whether exploring the Pearl District in Portland or wandering through the historic streets of North Beach in San Francisco, you're bound to discover culinary delights that are as diverse and dynamic as the cities themselves.
Portland vs. San Francisco Restaurant Comparison
When embarking on a move, finding your new favorite spots can make a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison between Portland and San Francisco is designed to ease the transition, helping you discover new eateries that remind you of your old haunts. Enjoy exploring these culinary delights in your new city.
| Portland | San Francisco | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | State Bird Provisions | Both offer innovative, award-winning dining experiences. |
| Screen Door | Brenda's French Soul Food | Famous for brunch and Southern comfort food. |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | Hawker Fare | Both specialize in flavorful, authentic Southeast Asian cuisine. |
| Apizza Scholls | Tony’s Pizza Napoletana | Known for their commitment to traditional pizza-making methods. |
| Pok Pok | The Slanted Door | Both offer an inventive take on Asian dishes in a vibrant setting. |
| Tasty n Alder | Foreign Cinema | Creative menus and an artsy vibe make both spots unique for brunch or dinner. |
| Blue Star Donuts | Bob's Donuts | Both establishments are beloved for their fresh, artisanal donuts. |
| Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen | The Slanted Door | Known for modern Vietnamese cuisine with a refined flair. |
| Salt & Straw | Bi-Rite Creamery | Both are celebrated for their innovative, high-quality ice cream flavors. |
| Pine State Biscuits | Plow | The go-to places for a hearty brunch, especially if you love biscuits. |
Among these culinary comparisons, aficionados of Southeast Asian cuisine moving from Portland to San Francisco will delight in exchanging Nong's Khao Man Gai's comforting, ginger-infused chicken for the vibrant, Lao-inspired dishes at Hawker Fare. Meanwhile, fans of artisanal donuts making the move will find Bob's Donuts an excellent San Francisco alternative to Portland's Blue Star Donuts, with both bakeries offering an array of innovative flavors and traditional favorites that draw long lines of devoted fans. In the realm of ice cream, Salt & Straw's imaginative approach to flavors finds its counterpart at San Francisco's Bi-Rite Creamery, where locally-sourced ingredients turn into unique, mouth-watering scoops, ensuring that your transition is as sweet as the treats you love.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. San Francisco Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate plays a crucial role in relocating, making it imperative to understand how Portland, OR and San Francisco, CA compare. This comparison is designed to illuminate the integral aspects of housing , providing a clearer picture to aid in your moving decision.
| Comparison | Portland | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Eco-friendly features, large backyards | Views of the Bay, proximity to tech hubs |
In assessing the housing markets of Portland, OR, and San Francisco, CA, several factors stand out. Homes in San Francisco are notably more expensive, reflecting its status as one of the priciest real estate markets in the country. This trend carries over to rental prices, with San Francisco's median rent being double that of Portland's. Moreover, San Francisco rates higher in walkability and urban lifestyle, largely due to its compact nature and comprehensive public transit system. The architectural styles also reflect each city's cultural and historical essence with Portland favoring the artisan Craftsman homes indicative of its natural, rustic vibe and San Francisco boasting ornate Victorian houses representing its rich history. Interestingly, Portland homes often highlight eco-friendly features and spacious outdoor areas in their listings, while San Francisco listings frequently boast about stunning Bay views and proximity to Silicon Valley, mirroring each city's unique appeal.
Portland vs. San Francisco Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another means adapting to a new environment, especially when it comes to the weather. Understanding how the climate in Portland, OR compares with San Francisco, CA is crucial for planning your wardrobe, activities, and even your health care needs. Here's a closer look at how these two cities stack up weather-wise.
Portland, OR
San Francisco, CA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
San Francisco, CA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
San Francisco, CA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
San Francisco, CA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Floods | Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Portland to San Francisco, you'll notice a significant increase in sunny days and a milder climate overall. San Francisco tends to have cooler summers and warmer winters compared to Portland. The difference in annual rainfall is also notable, with Portland experiencing more wet days throughout the year. Understanding these variations can help you prepare for your new environment, whether that means investing in lighter clothing or planning more outdoor activities to take advantage of San Francisco's sunnier disposition.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to San Francisco
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the financial aspects of your life might be impacted. This comparison aims to highlight the differences in money and finance between Portland, OR and San Francisco, CA, giving you a better grasp of what to expect in terms of living costs, taxation, and the overall economic environment.
| Comparison | Portland | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $121,826 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 164 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.91 | 0.79 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 8.5 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Health Care | Technology, Finance, Tourism |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Critical |
The financial landscape of Portland, OR, and San Francisco, CA, presents its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. San Francisco, with its significantly higher average household income, reflects the city's robust tech-driven economy. However, this income comes at a cost, as the city's cost of living index is over twice that of Portland's, driven by exorbitant housing prices. While Portland boasts no sales tax, providing some relief for residents, San Francisco's sales tax rate of 8.5% contributes further to its higher cost of living. Transitioning from Portland to San Francisco, you'll find yourself in a wealthier yet significantly more expensive environment, where affluence is visible but comes alongside a critical level of homelessness. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for anyone considering making the move.
Portland vs. San Francisco Political & Religious Comparison
When preparing to move from Portland, OR to San Francisco, CA, understanding the local ambiance is crucial. This quick guide provides an at-a-glance snapshot comparing the politics between Portland & San Francisco along with insights into the religious landscape, giving you a clearer picture of your potential new surroundings.
| Portland | San Francisco | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Progressive | Liberal/Progressive |
| Local Politics | Democratic leaning, activist-engaged | Democratic stronghold, high political activism |
| Religion | Mixed, with a significant number of non-religious residents | Mixed, with an emphasis on diversity and inclusivity |
In both Portland and San Francisco, you'll find a community that values liberal and progressive ideals, illustrated by their strong Democratic leanings and remarkable levels of political activism. While both cities have a diverse religious landscape, San Francisco particularly prides itself on its inclusivity, welcoming people from all walks of life. Whether you're engaging in local politics, seeking communities of faith, or contributing to civic activities, both cities offer vibrant settings for active and engaged residents.
Portland vs. San Francisco Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Portland, OR to San Francisco, CA presents unique challenges and opportunities, especially when comparing the traffic and transportation options between Portland & San Francisco. This guide aims to help you better understand what to expect regarding daily commutes and traffic, making your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Portland | San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 24.7 | 34.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, with some planning | Easily |
In both cities, you'll find distinctive public transit systems that greatly support a car-free lifestyle. Portland boasts an impressive network that includes buses, light rail, and streetcars, making it possible to navigate the city without a personal vehicle if you plan your routes well. Meanwhile, San Francisco's comprehensive public transit system, widely recognized for its BART, MUNI buses, and historic cable cars, offers a level of connectivity and convenience that makes living without a car not only feasible but often preferable. Despite higher traffic congestion scores in San Francisco, the city's compact size and extensive public transit options provide a silver lining, offering a unique urban living experience that differs markedly from Portland's.
Additional Resources
Portland Moving Services
Popular Portland to California Routes
Popular Moving Resources
