Best Salem to Boston Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Salem to Boston and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,035 mile move from Oregon to Massachusetts go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 57 Salem to Boston 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 Stairhopper Movers), how much the move costs (approximately $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salem compared to Boston. 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 Salem to Boston Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | 9.62 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Centaur Moving | 9.60 | 9.79 | 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 Salem to Boston
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,035 miles from Salem, OR to Boston, MA will cost on average $4,362 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salem to Boston move is roughly $10,553. 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 | $2,923 | 300 ft³ | 9.74 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,362 | 450 ft³ | 9.69 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,233 | 750 ft³ | 9.64 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,553 | 1100 ft³ | 9.59 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,270 | 1600 ft³ | 9.54 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,089 | 1800 ft³ | 9.49 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Boston to Salem guide.
Compare the 5 Best Salem to Boston Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Stairhopper Movers
20 Harvard St
Boston, MA, 2129
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and commercial moves....
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1696867 / 623045 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 21 |
| Registered Drivers | 22 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 261,200 (2022) |
Centaur Moving
This listing has been claimed by Centaur Moving171 Windsor St
Cambridge, MA, 02139
About Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide moves....
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3638077 / 1249051 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 3 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (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.
Salem vs. Boston Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting when you're not familiar with the local areas. To ease this transition, we have crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Salem, OR & Boston, MA. This guide helps you find a neighborhood in Boston that mirrors the community you know and love in Salem.
| Salem | Boston | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| West Salem | Jamaica Plain | Diverse community, green spaces |
| South Salem | South Boston | Vibrant, historic with a sense of community |
| Sunnyslope | Roslindale | Family-friendly, quiet neighborhoods |
| Englewood | Charlestown | Rich history, close-knit community |
| West Salem Foothills | Beacon Hill | Exclusive, historic homes and steep streets |
| Grant | Dorchester | Diverse, with a mix of cultural backgrounds |
| Highland | Back Bay | Upscale, with picturesque streets |
| Illiahe Hills | Chestnut Hill | Affluent, with beautiful homes and landscapes |
| Morningside | Allston-Brighton | Youthful energy, close to universities |
| Faye Wright | North End | Rich cultural heritage, excellent dining |
If you're moving from Salem's Englewood, you will find Charlestown's rich history and close-knit community reminiscent of home, where historical landmarks meet modern living. For those accustomed to the natural beauty and diversity of West Salem, Jamaica Plain's ample green spaces like the Arnold Arboretum and public art installations will feel comforting. Meanwhile, Morningside residents transitioning to Boston might find Allston-Brighton's youthful vigor and proximity to institutions like Harvard and Boston University particularly appealing, along with trendy eateries and venues such as Brighton Music Hall. For a more upscale and serene environment similar to Illiahe Hills, Chestnut Hill offers not only breathtaking homes but also access to the lush landscapes of the Brookline and Newton areas, perfect for those seeking a quiet yet high-standard living experience.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Salem to Boston
Moving cities can be a daunting yet exciting adventure. This guide aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Salem, OR to Boston, MA . Through comparing the pros and cons, you'll gain a clearer understanding of what awaits in each city, helping you to make an informed decision about your move.
Salem, OR- Smaller city vibe
- Lesser job opportunities
- Limited public transport
- Fewer cultural events
- Lower cost of living
Boston, MA- Rich historical culture
- Greater career prospects
- Extensive public transport
- Vibrant arts scene
- More prestigious universities
Boston, MA- Heavier traffic
- Higher cost of living
- Denser population
- Fewer green spaces
- Faster-paced lifestyle
Salem, OR- Peaceful environment
- More affordable housing
- Close-knit communities
- Abundant nature
- Relaxed pace of life
The move from Salem's tranquil surroundings to Boston's bustling environment marks a significant lifestyle change. In Boston, you'll find yourself amidst a vibrant arts scene with venues like the Museum of Fine Arts and historical sites such as the Freedom Trail offering a rich cultural experience. The city's extensive public transport system, including the MBTA, simplifies commuting. However, the tranquility and affordability of Salem, with its scenic parks like Riverfront Park and a slower pace of life, will be a trade-off for Boston's higher cost of living and dense urban environment. As you prepare for this move, weigh these differences considering your lifestyle preferences and career aspirations.
Salem vs. Boston Food Guide
Food is an essential part of experiencing local culture and understanding what it's like to live in a new area. In this guide, we will embark on a culinary comparison to help you grasp the food scene in your future home. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Salem & Boston, aiming to inform you better about where you're moving to.
| Salem | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Marionberry Pie | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Salmon | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Clam Chowder in Bread Bowl |
| Most popular vegan food | Cashew Cheese Pizza | Vegan Lobster Rolls |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Salem, the Marionberry Pie, a local favorite, showcases Oregon's love for its native marionberry, while in Boston, the Clam Chowder represents a deep-rooted tradition in New England cuisine. For those moving to Boston, the historic Union Oyster House and Neptune Oyster in the North End offer a quintessential Boston seafood experience. Similarly, the vegan scene in both cities is flourishing, with Boston slightly edging out with options like Vegan Lobster Rolls that cater to a diverse palate. Whether you're craving the smoky flavors of Pacific Northwest salmon or the briny sweetness of a New England lobster roll, these cities cater to a variety of food lovers.
Salem vs. Boston Restaurant Comparison
When relocating from Salem, Oregon, to Boston, Massachusetts, discovering new favorite dining spots is crucial for feeling at home. This comparison chart aims to bridge the gap between familiar and new by highlighting comparable restaurants in both cities. By comparing top Salem eateries to Boston equivalents, we simplify your culinary exploration, making Boston feel like home.
| Salem | Boston | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Word of Mouth Bistro | Mike's City Diner | Both known for hearty, American breakfasts |
| The Kitchen on Court Street | Paramount | Casual yet always bustling American diner vibe |
| Marco Polo Global Restaurant | Myers + Chang | Unique takes on global cuisine |
| Bentley's Grill | Grill 23 & Bar | High-end steaks in an upscale environment |
| Rafns' Restaurant | Farmstead Table | Focus on local, sustainable cuisine |
| Busick Court Restaurant | The Friendly Toast | Kitschy, eclectic brunch spot with a wide variety |
| Acapulco | El Pelon Taqueria | Authentic, affordable Mexican food |
| Rudy's Steakhouse | The Bancroft | Sophisticated take on the classic steakhouse |
| Gamberetti's Italian Restaurant | Giulia | Handmade pasta and Italian dishes |
| Sybil's Omelettes | The Friendly Toast | Again, for its diverse and creative breakfast menu |
For many, the journey from Salem to Boston is not just a geographical shift but also a culinary adventure. Taking a closer dive, Mike's City Diner in Boston mirrors the warm, hearty breakfasts Salem's Word of Mouth Bistro proudly serves, wrapping patrons in comfort food bliss from the break of dawn. Meanwhile, lovers of global flavors will appreciate Myers + Chang for its unique twist on international dishes, channeling the spirit of Marco Polo Global Restaurant in Salem with every bite. And for those special nights out, Bentley's Grill's upscale ambiance is closely mirrored by Grill 23 & Bar in Boston—both offering exquisite steaks and an atmosphere that turns dinner into an occasion. Each Boston restaurant has been chosen for its ability to evoke the familiar essence of each Salem favorite, ensuring that even the most homesick diner can find a new place to call their own.
Ready to start your move?
Salem vs. Boston Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing housing between Salem, OR and Boston, MA is crucial. This comparison covers everything from costs to lifestyle, offering a clear picture to help you make an informed decision about your next home.
| Comparison | Salem | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Ranch, Craftsman | Colonial, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Quiet neighborhoods, backyard space | Access to public transit, historic homes |
Moving from Salem to Boston means preparing for higher living costs, especially in housing. In Boston, the charm of historic homes often comes with a higher price tag, but it also means living in some of the country's most walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods. Here, your daily commute might not require a car, thanks to excellent public transit and an urban lifestyle that scores high among residents. Salem, while offering more affordable housing options and spacious backyards, presents a quieter, less urban environment. Whether you prioritize cost, style, or convenience, understanding these differences is key to finding your ideal home.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Boston, MA
1. South End: Known for its charming, tree-lined streets and the spacious Peter's Park, which features a dedicated dog run area where your pets can play off-leash.
2. Jamaica Plain: With its proximity to the extensive trails and green spaces of the Arnold Arboretum and Jamaica Pond, Jamaica Plain offers endless outdoor activities for you and your four-legged friends.
3. Beacon Hill: This neighborhood is not only picturesque but also boasts pet-friendly dining options and easy access to the Boston Common, the oldest public park in America with ample space for your pets to explore.
Salem vs. Boston Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather in Salem, OR and Boston, MA compares is crucial. This knowledge will help you adjust better to what's in store, whether it's the amount of sunshine you'll enjoy or the seasonal allergies you might face. Let's dive into the specifics.
Salem, OR
Boston, MA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Salem, OR
Boston, MA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Salem, OR
Boston, MA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Salem, OR
Boston, MA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Salem | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Earthquakes | Blizzards, Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Salem and Boston enjoy similar summer temperatures, you'll find Boston's winters considerably colder with more snowfall—averaging 48 inches annually compared to Salem's 6 inches. Boston also boasts more days of sunshine per year, which might be a welcome change if you're moving from Salem's cloudier climate. However, be prepared for Boston's higher winter humidity levels, potentially making cold days feel even chillier. Air quality in Salem tends to be better, likely due to its smaller population and lesser traffic congestion compared to Boston.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salem to Boston
Moving between cities involves not just a physical relocation but a financial adjustment too. Understanding the cost of living and financial outlook in your new city is crucial. This comparison aims to highlight the financial differences between Salem and Boston , to better prepare you for your move.
| Comparison | Salem | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $63,927 | $79,283 |
| Cost of Living Index | 110.55 | 132.5 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 5 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.18 | 1.13 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 6.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Agriculture, Manufacturing | Education, Health Services, Finance |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
When you're moving from Salem to Boston, prepare for a significant shift in your financial landscape. Boston boasts a higher average household income, potentially offsetting the substantially higher cost of living index compared to Salem. However, the state income tax is lower in Massachusetts, offering some relief. Despite these financial considerations, Boston's prominent industries in education, health services, and finance suggest diverse job opportunities. This, coupled with lower levels of poverty and homelessness, paints a complex but optimistic picture for newcomers.
Salem vs. Boston Political & Religious Comparison
This is a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Salem, Oregon & Boston, Massachusetts designed to provide a quick snapshot of the communities you're transitioning between. Understand the political leanings, local government nuances, and predominant religious affiliations to feel more at home in your new city.
| Salem | Boston | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal, leans Democratic | Strong Democratic stronghold |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Focus on education, technology, and healthcare |
| Religion | Christianity dominates, with a mix of other faiths | Diverse religious landscape, strong Catholic presence |
Salem, Oregon, and Boston, Massachusetts, showcase the rich tapestry of American urban life through their unique political and religious landscapes. Both cities exhibit a strong inclination towards Democratic values, with Boston being marked as a significant hub for the party. Salem prides itself on progressive stances on social issues, reflective of Oregon’s overall political climate. Religion in Salem is primarily centered around Christianity, with a blend of other faiths contributing to its diversity. In contrast, Boston's religious scene is varied but has a notable Catholic presence, speaking volumes of its historical roots and demographic shifts. This diversity in both political views and religious affiliations enriches the social fabric of each city, offering you a broad spectrum of communities and perspectives as you make your move.
Salem vs. Boston Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Salem, OR to Boston, MA introduces a significant shift in the traffic and transportation options between these two cities. This comparison is designed to offer a deeper understanding of what daily commutes might look like for you, highlighting the differences in average commute times, traffic congestion levels, and the availability of public transit options. Whether you're used to driving or relying on public transportation, getting a grasp on these aspects could drastically shape your settling-in experience.
| Comparison | Salem | Boston |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 30 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | It's challenging | Yes, especially within city limits |
In Salem, your commute may typically be shorter and more predictable due to lower traffic congestion. However, the city's public transportation system, while available, doesn't offer the same breadth or convenience as what you'll find in Boston. Transitioning to Boston, you might face longer commutes and higher traffic levels, but Boston's comprehensive public transit network, comprising buses, subways (the MBTA), commuter rails, and even ferries, significantly eases the reliance on personal vehicles. This is especially true within city limits, where most destinations are readily accessible through various public transit options, making it easier and more environmentally friendly to get by without a car.
Additional Resources
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