Best Portland to Salt Lake City Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Portland to Salt Lake City and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 866 mile move from Oregon to Utah go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 30 Portland to Salt Lake City 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 801 Moving Company), 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 Salt Lake City. 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 Salt Lake City Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 801 Moving Company | 9.39 | 9.49 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Best of Utah Moving Company | 9.33 | 8.73 | 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 Salt Lake City
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 866 miles from Portland, OR to Salt Lake City, UT will cost on average $2,518 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Portland to Salt Lake City move is roughly $6,044. 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 | $1,693 | 300 ft³ | 5.64 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,518 | 450 ft³ | 5.59 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $4,159 | 750 ft³ | 5.54 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $6,044 | 1100 ft³ | 5.49 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $8,712 | 1600 ft³ | 5.44 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $9,711 | 1800 ft³ | 5.39 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salt Lake City to Portland guide.
Compare the 5 Best Portland to Salt Lake City Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
801 Moving Company
3735 Redmaple Rd
Millcreek, UT, 84106
About 801 Moving Company
801 Moving Company has been serving the Salt Lake City Metro, UT area since 2008. Based in Salt Lake City, this...
Services
- Packing services
- Long-distance moves
- Local moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 4140953 / 1587673 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | - |
Best of Utah Moving Company
10291 S 1300 E #142
Sandy, UT, 84094
About Best of Utah Moving Company
Best of Utah Moving Company is one of the top-rated local moving companies in Utah. It is fully licensed and insured...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Office moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2920944 / 1476153 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 14 |
| Registered Drivers | 12 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 100,000 (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. Salt Lake City Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be a maze of unfamiliar streets and unknown communities. To help you navigate this journey, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Salt Lake City, UT . Using this guide, you'll find parallels between neighborhoods you know and love, and those in your future city, making the unknown a little more familiar.
| Portland | Salt Lake City | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | Downtown SLC | Vibrant urban living |
| Alberta Arts District | 9th and 9th | Eclectic and artsy vibe |
| Nob Hill | The Avenues | Historic with a bohemian twist |
| Ladd's Addition | Sugar House | Charming and walkable |
| Mississippi | Ballpark | Emerging, trendy locale |
| Hawthorne | Liberty Wells | Bohemian and quaint |
| Mt. Tabor | The Marmalade | Quiet, scenic views |
| Eastmoreland | Yalecrest | Upscale, peaceful community |
| St. Johns | Capitol Hill | Diverse, with stunning views |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Foothill | Family-friendly, with access to nature |
In exploring these neighborhoods further, you'll discover that both the Pearl District in Portland and Downtown SLC offer an exciting urban lifestyle, complete with bustling streets, trendy eateries like Piazza Italia in Portland or The Copper Onion in Salt Lake City, and a rich arts scene. For a more eclectic and artsy vibe, Alberta Arts District's vibrant community translates well into Salt Lake City's 9th and 9th, where unique boutiques and cafes line the streets. Nature lovers drawn to Mt. Tabor’s expansive parks and paths will find a similar refuge in The Marmalade with its quiet streets and scenic views. Lastly, the historic charm and walkability of Sellwood-Moreland are mirrored in SLC's Foothill neighborhood, offering families a seamless transition with access to parks, schools, and community events. Whether you're looking for the city buzz or a quiet suburban life, understanding these neighborhood dynamics can greatly simplify your move.
Things to Do in Salt Lake City
- Attend a concert at Gallivan Center
- Shop at The Gateway
- Ski at Snowbird
- Stargaze at Clark Planetarium
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City
Moving from Portland, OR to Salt Lake City, UT, offers a unique set of benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Through these charts, we hope to provide insight into how the quality of life might change, focusing on what you are leaving behind and what awaits you in your new city.
Portland, OR- Higher cost of living
- More rain
- Less sunshine
- Smaller tech scene
Salt Lake City, UT- Lower cost of living
- Less rain
- More sunshine
- Growing tech scene
Salt Lake City, UT- Smaller arts scene
- Less vegan options
- Less robust public transit
- Desert landscape
Portland, OR- Vibrant arts scene
- More vegan options
- Better public transit
- Lusher green spaces
The transition from Portland's frequent rainfalls to Salt Lake City's dryer climate makes outdoor activities and exploration more frequent year-round. You'll find yourself swapping the lush landscapes of Washington Park for the breathtaking views of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Though you might miss Portland's renowned Farmers Market, Salt Lake City's growing tech scene, bolstered by companies in the Silicon Slopes, offers exciting career opportunities. Dining out will be different; while Portland is known for its vegan cuisine, found in places like Vegan Avenue, Salt Lake City boasts an up-and-coming food scene with gems like The Copper Onion. You'll trade the frequent drizzles and the vibrant arts scene of the Pacific Northwest for sunnier days and an emerging cultural hub in Utah.
Portland vs. Salt Lake City Food Guide
Food plays a significant role in understanding the local culture and atmosphere of where you're relocating. In this guide, we'll embark on an enlightening journey as we compare the local cuisine between Portland, OR & Salt Lake City, UT , ensuring you have a taste of what culinary delights await in your new home.
| Portland | Salt Lake City | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Dungeness Crab | Fry Sauce |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Belly | Utah Scones (often served with honey butter) |
| Most popular street food item | Food Carts offering a variety of international cuisines | Navajo Taco |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Vegan Pho |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, you'll find a vibrant street food scene with food carts dotting neighborhoods like Hawthorne and Alberta, offering tastes from around the globe. Places like Screen Door are emblematic of the city's love for comforting yet inventive cuisine, highlighting local ingredients. On the other hand, Salt Lake City shines with its unique culinary offerings such as fry sauce and Utah scones, found in local favorites like Red Iguana. The city's food trucks might be fewer, but places like Bambara encapsulate its burgeoning foodie scene and a growing appreciation for diverse, inclusive menus.
Portland vs. Salt Lake City Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding the best spots to eat can transform a new city into your home. This comparison aims to ease your move from Portland, OR to Salt Lake City, UT by matching top Portland eateries with their Salt Lake City counterparts. Discover your next favorite dining destinations and make your transition scrumptious.
| Portland | Salt Lake City | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Table X | Both offer innovative, modern cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients |
| Pok Pok | SOMI Vietnamese Bistro | Authentic Southeast Asian flavors with a unique twist |
| Screen Door | The Copper Onion | Both are famous for elevating classic American comfort food |
| Tusk | Laziz Kitchen | Both emphasize fresh, local produce in their bright and flavorful dishes |
| Pine State Biscuits | Roots Café | Both are beloved for their hearty breakfast and brunch offerings |
| Ken's Artisan Pizza | Settebello Pizzeria | Artisan pizzas that celebrate the craft of pizza making |
| Stumptown Coffee Roasters | Publik Coffee Roasters | Both coffee shops are pioneers in the third-wave coffee movement |
| Salt & Straw | Normal Ice Cream | Innovative flavors that push the boundaries of traditional ice cream |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | Channon Thai | Both offer a focused menu perfected over time, showcasing the best of Thai chicken dishes |
| Apizza Scholls | Este Pizzeria | Este provides a taste of New York-style pizza with a commitment to quality ingredients and classic techniques, much like Apizza Scholls |
For those missing the signature flavors of Portland's iconic eateries such as Le Pigeon or Pok Pok, Salt Lake City presents enticing alternatives like Table X and SOMI Vietnamese Bistro that promise not just a meal, but a culinary experience. Whether it's the farm-to-table ethos of Le Pigeon finding echoes in Table X's seasonal delicacies, or the intricate Southeast Asian tastes of Pok Pok mirrored in SOMI's vibrant dishes, these establishments ensure that the essence of your favorite flavors is never far away. Exploring these recommendations offers not just familiar comforts but also the excitement of discovering new favorite spots that reflect the diverse and evolving culinary landscape of Salt Lake City.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Salt Lake City Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, the real estate market is pivotal in deciding on a new place to call home. It's important to compare how Portland, OR , and Salt Lake City, UT stack up in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability, and more, to make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Portland | Salt Lake City |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Old Portland | Prairie, Victorian |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Green spaces, Proximity to cafes | Mountain views, Nearby ski resorts |
In diving deeper into the table's insights, Portland's higher median home price reflects its vibrant urban culture and lush greenery, offering residents plenty of parks and recreational areas. The city's architecture proudly showcases Craftsman and Old Portland styles, complementing its rich history. Meanwhile, Salt Lake City's appeal lies in its proximity to natural beauties and outdoor activities, especially for skiing enthusiasts, reflected in real estate listings that frequently highlight mountain views and nearby ski resorts, such as Snowbird and Sundance. Salt Lake City also boasts a slightly more affordable living cost, making it an attractive option for many potential movers.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, UT
1. The Avenues: Known for its quiet streets and proximity to off-leash dog parks like Lindsay Gardens, The Avenues is a top choice for pet owners seeking both community and outdoor space.
2. Sugar House: This neighborhood caters to pet owners with numerous pet-friendly apartments, the expansive Sugar House Park for walks, and various pet-centric businesses, such as grooming and pet supply stores.
3. Liberty Wells: Offering a mix of residential charm and accessibility to several dog parks, including Herman Franks Park, Liberty Wells is ideal for those seeking a pet-friendly community vibe in Salt Lake City.
Portland vs. Salt Lake City Weather Considerations
If you're moving from Portland, OR to Salt Lake City, UT , understanding how the weather compares to what you're used to is essential. This comparison will help you prepare for changes in climate and outdoor activity levels, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
Portland, OR
Salt Lake City, UT
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Salt Lake City, UT
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Salt Lake City, UT
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Salt Lake City, UT
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Salt Lake City |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Floods | Earthquakes, Avalanches |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City, you'll experience more sunshine and drier conditions, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities year-round. However, prepare for colder winters in Salt Lake City with significantly more snow, offering opportunities for winter sports but also requiring adjustments in terms of clothing and transportation. Air quality also varies, being generally better in Portland due to different environmental regulations and geographic locations. Understanding these variations can help you plan for your new environment in Salt Lake City.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City
Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. It's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Portland stack up against Salt Lake City to make a well-informed decision.
| Comparison | Portland | Salt Lake City |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $66,658 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 100.6 |
| State Income Tax | 4.75 - 9.9% | 4.95% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.91% | 0.66% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0% | 7.18% |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Apparel | Trade, Transportation, Utilities |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | Significant | Lesser |
While Portland and Salt Lake City both offer moderately affluent environments, there are notable differences in their economic landscapes. For instance, despite a higher average household income in Portland, its cost of living index and property taxes are also higher, which may lead to more of your income going towards basic expenses. On the other hand, Salt Lake City presents a slightly lower income but with a more affordable cost of living. Note also the striking difference in sales tax—Salt Lake City has a significant sales tax, whereas Portland has none. These details are valuable to consider in the broader context of each city's economic environment, especially if you're weighing the pros and cons of moving.
Portland vs. Salt Lake City Political & Religious Comparison
In preparing for your move from Portland, OR to Salt Lake City, UT, a quick overview of the comparison of the politics between Portland & Salt Lake City might prove beneficial. This snapshot aims to give you an understanding of the political and religious makeup of your current and future home.
| Portland | Salt Lake City | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Moderately Conservative |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies | Mix of conservative and progressive policies |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | LDS Church influence |
When moving from Portland to Salt Lake City, you'll transition from an environment known for its liberal standpoints to one with a moderate conservative leaning, especially influenced by the presence of the LDS Church. The political landscape of Portland favors progressive policies, while Salt Lake City presents a more mixed approach, where conservative values are blended with progressive ones in a unique Utah flavor. This shift is significant, not just politically but also in terms of the religious makeup, moving from a city with a higher number of residents without religious affiliation to one where the LDS Church plays a central role in community activities and culture.
Portland vs. Salt Lake City Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Portland, OR, to Salt Lake City, UT, it’s essential to better understand the daily commute and traffic, as well as compare the transportation options between Portland & Salt Lake City. This insight will help prepare you for the differences in driving and transiting in your new city.
| Comparison | Portland | Salt Lake City |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 26 | 22 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes, but with some limitations | Yes, in most areas |
In Portland, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Salt Lake City, reflecting the city's denser urban core and higher traffic congestion score. Despite this, Portland offers robust public transit options, making it feasible to live without a car for most city dwellers. The public transit system includes buses, light rail, and streetcars, which connect various neighborhoods efficiently. On the other hand, Salt Lake City, with its lower traffic congestion and shorter average commute times, is also friendly for non-drivers. However, its public transit system, while adequate, doesn't cover the city as extensively as Portland's. This might influence your decision on whether to rely on a car for your daily commute.
Additional Resources
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