Best Salem to Seattle Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Salem to Seattle and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 224 mile move from Oregon to Washington go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 38 Salem to Seattle 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 Seattle Moves & More), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $4,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salem compared to Seattle. 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 Seattle Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seattle Moves & More | 9.54 | 9.39 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | 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 Seattle
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 224 miles from Salem, OR to Seattle, WA will cost on average $1,972 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salem to Seattle move is roughly $4,710. 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 | $1,329 | 300 ft³ | 4.43 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,972 | 450 ft³ | 4.38 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,249 | 750 ft³ | 4.33 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,710 | 1100 ft³ | 4.28 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,771 | 1600 ft³ | 4.23 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,527 | 1800 ft³ | 4.18 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Salem guide.
Compare the 5 Best Salem to Seattle Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
Seattle Moves & More
4601 Shilshole Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its...
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2962927 / 5796 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 5 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 31,000 (2023) |
John Volken Academy Movers
921 Central Ave N
Kent, WA, 98032
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local business...
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2261169 / 1666977 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 6 |
| Registered Drivers | 8 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 200 (2015) |
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Looking to move from Salem, OR, to Seattle, WA, but worried about finding a neighborhood that feels like home? Our guide helps you compare local neighborhoods between Salem, OR & Seattle, WA, matching you with areas in the Emerald City that resemble your favorite spots in Salem. Let's make Seattle feel familiar right from the start!
| Salem | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| West Salem | West Seattle | Both have strong community vibes and stunning views |
| South Salem | Beacon Hill | Family-friendly areas with access to parks and good schools |
| Sunnyslope | Ballard | Both offer a blend of residential comfort and trendy eateries |
| Englewood | Greenwood | Similar levels of quiet, suburban feel with local shops |
| Highland | Capitol Hill | Vibrant nightlife and diverse community offerings |
| Faye Wright | Queen Anne | Quiet, family-oriented with scenic views and parks |
| Illahe | Magnolia | Upscale, secluded areas with golf courses and exclusive clubs |
| Grant | Fremont | Artsy vibe with a mix of urban and family-friendly attractions |
| Morningside | Wallingford | Both have a balance of residential areas, businesses, and schools |
| North Lancaster | Ravenna | Offers a mix of quiet residential blocks and bustling commercial zones |
If you're drawn to the picturesque views and community atmosphere of West Salem, you'll fall in love with West Seattle, where the vistas over Puget Sound rival any landscape painting. For those who cherish the family-oriented and peaceful setting of South Salem, Beacon Hill in Seattle offers not only tranquility but also boasts verdant parks like Jefferson Park, perfect for weekend picnics or leisurely strolls. Those enjoying the vibrant and diverse dining scene in Sunnyslope will find a similar foodie paradise in Ballard, where venues like The Ballard Cut and Reuben’s Brews invite locals and visitors alike to savor unique flavors. Meanwhile, Capitol Hill, matching Salem's Highland area, entices with not just nightlife but also cultural gems like the Seattle Asian Art Museum, making it a hotspot for both entertainment and art enthusiasts.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Salem to Seattle
Moving from one city to another can be a complex decision, filled with various factors to consider. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of Salem, OR to Seattle, WA relocation , comparing the good and the bad through informative charts. Whether it’s the change in weather, the job market, or lifestyle differences, you'll find straightforward insights here.
Salem, OR- Smaller job market
- Less cultural events
- Fewer restaurants
- Lesser known schools
Seattle, WA- Larger job market
- More cultural events
- More diverse dining options
- Prestigious universities
Seattle, WA- Higher cost of living
- More traffic
- Expensive housing market
- City hustle and bustle
Salem, OR- Lower cost of living
- Less traffic
- More affordable housing
- Quaint community vibe
While Salem might offer a more laid-back lifestyle with its quaint community vibe and affordable living, Seattle boasts an array of cultural and social opportunities that are hard to find elsewhere. You'll move from the limited dining options in Salem to Seattle's vibrant food scene, featuring places like Pike Place Market and popular restaurants like Canlis. Though Seattle's cost of living and traffic might be higher, the city's world-renowned universities, like the University of Washington, and its diverse job market promise a dynamic lifestyle enriched with opportunities. Whether it's exploring the historic Seattle neighborhoods, enjoying the bustling waterfront, or taking advantage of the city's rich cultural calendar, the move opens up a plethora of experiences waiting to be discovered.
Salem vs. Seattle Food Guide
Understanding the food culture of a place is crucial when considering a move. Food is a vital part of the local culture and contributes significantly to the lifestyle in an area. Through this guide, we aim to compare the local cuisine between Salem & Seattle , so you can be better informed about the food scene where you're moving to.
| Salem | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Marionberry Pie | Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Ribs | Teriyaki Chicken |
| Most popular street food item | Food Truck Tacos | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Bowl | Quinoa Salad |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, you're moving into a city with a rich culinary landscape, where health and fitness are a priority as reflected in their food options. The iconic Salmon dish can be savored in waterfront restaurants scattered throughout neighborhoods like Ballard and Pike Place Market. With a stronger vegan presence, Seattle boasts a variety of establishments like 'Plum Bistro' in Capitol Hill, showcasing a progressive vegan scene. The city's vibrant foodie culture is also evident in its diverse food truck scene, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to taste, from international cuisines to new takes on American classics.
Salem vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
As you embark on your journey from Salem, OR, to Seattle, WA, finding your culinary comforts in a new city is paramount. Food serves as a cornerstone for making anywhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you in transitioning your gastronomic delights from Salem to Seattle, connecting you with new favorite spots that mirror your old haunts.
| Salem | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Word of Mouth Bistro | The Fat Hen | cozy breakfast with a similar community vibe |
| DaVinci Ristorante | Il Terrazzo Carmine | authentic Italian cuisine, upscale ambiance |
| Bentley's Grill | Metropolitan Grill | classic steakhouse with a sophisticated touch |
| ACME Cafe | Glo's | casual diner with comfort food staples |
| Busick Court Restaurant | The 5 Point Café | iconic diner known for generous portions |
| Rudy's Steakhouse | Canlis | fine dining with exceptional steak and seafood |
| Ike Box | Caffe Vita | coffeehouse with a strong local following |
| Amadeus Cafe | Cafe Flora | inventive vegetarian cuisine in a cozy setting |
| Mina's Cafe | Pettirosso Cafe & Bar | casual atmosphere, diverse menu |
| Marco Polo Global Restaurant | Spice Waala | street food inspired dishes with global flavors |
In your culinary explorations, discovering places that evoke the familiar while offering new experiences is key. At Canlis in Seattle, you'll find that the marriage of ambiance, impeccable service, and cuisine elevates the steakhouse experience, harkening back to the fond memories of Rudy's Steakhouse in Salem but with a unique Seattle twist. For those mornings when nothing but a hearty, feel-good breakfast will do, The Fat Hen offers a cozy, neighborhood vibe reminiscent of Word of Mouth Bistro, known for their benedicts and baked eggs, ensuring a seamless transition from your Salem morning routines. And when you're in search of that perfect cup of coffee paired with a community atmosphere, Caffe Vita stands as Seattle's answer to Ike Box, serving not just coffee but connectivity within the community.
Ready to start your move?
Salem vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly influences the decision to move, making it crucial to understand how Salem, OR and Seattle, WA compare. This comparison aims to highlight key housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to help inform your decision.
| Comparison | Salem | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Modern and Ranch | Craftsman and Contemporary |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Spacious backyards, proximity to parks | Views of Puget Sound, downtown access |
When comparing Salem and Seattle, it's evident that the lifestyle and housing costs differ significantly. In Salem, homes are more affordable, and listings often highlight spacious backyards and closeness to parks, underlining a community-oriented, suburban feel. On the other hand, Seattle, with its higher living costs, emphasizes its vibrant urban lifestyle, showcasing properties with stunning views of Puget Sound and easy access to the bustling downtown area. Seattle's greater walkability and bikeability scores also reflect its urban density and the emphasis on sustainable city living. Choosing between these cities depends on your preference for an urban vs. suburban lifestyle and how much you're willing to invest in your living situation.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Salem vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
When planning a move, understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to is vital. This guide offers a detailed comparison of climatic conditions between Salem, OR, and Seattle, WA, highlighting weather specifics to prepare you for the transition.
Salem, OR
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Salem, OR
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Salem, OR
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Salem, OR
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Salem | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Floods | Earthquakes, Landslides |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While both Salem and Seattle share similar weather patterns, being in the Pacific Northwest, there are subtle differences that could affect your daily life. Salem experiences slightly warmer summers but also colder winters than Seattle, which could mean adjusting your wardrobe for the seasons. The number of sunny days is comparable, though Seattle enjoys a bit more sunshine annually. Paying attention to the natural disaster potential of each area is also essential, with Salem being more prone to floods and Seattle to landslides. If allergies are a concern, the predominant allergens differ between the two cities, possibly affecting seasonal allergy sufferers differently.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salem to Seattle
When planning a move from Salem, OR to Seattle, WA, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape will change. This comparison will give you a clear picture of what to expect financially in your new city, detailing key economic indicators such as average income and taxes. Salem to Seattle transitions represent not just a change of scenery, but potentially a significant shift in your economic environment.
| Comparison | Salem | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $63,927 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 110.55 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9% | 9.9% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.18% | 0.99% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0% | 10.1% |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Education, Healthcare | Technology, Aerospace, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Lower |
| Homelessness | High | Very High |
Moving from Salem to Seattle, you'll notice a higher cost of living, particularly in housing and everyday expenses, reflected in the significant difference in the cost of living index. Despite both cities being in the same state and thereby sharing the state income tax rate, the average sales tax in Seattle is considerably higher due to local taxes. However, this is balanced by a higher average household income and a vibrant job market, mainly fueled by the technology and aerospace industries. The shift in economic circumstances also implies differences in the affordability and availability of housing, influencing levels of homelessness and poverty. Understanding these dynamics can help you better prepare for your financial life in Seattle.
Salem vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Salem, OR to Seattle, WA, understanding the community you'll be joining is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Salem & Seattle, offering insights that might influence your decision.
| Salem | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Lean Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate | Progressive |
| Religion | Mixed, with a notable Christian community. Your Church | Diverse, less religious overall. Your Temple |
The political and religious landscapes of Salem and Seattle offer distinct atmospheres. Salem exhibits a balanced political environment, skewing slightly Democratic, with a diverse religious community that includes a prominent Christian presence. Seattle, on the other hand, is known for its strong Democratic leanings and a significantly progressive stance on local issues. You'll find that Seattle hosts a wide array of religious beliefs but is generally considered less religiously active compared to Salem. This could impact your social interactions and community involvement, reflecting the cities' contrasting cultural climates.
Salem vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Salem and Seattle will help you better prepare for your daily commute and manage your time effectively. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect when moving from Salem to Seattle.
| Comparison | Salem | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 23 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
While Salem offers a relatively smooth commuting experience with an average commute time of 23 minutes and lower traffic congestion, Seattle's vibrant urban landscape ups the ante with better public transit options. In Seattle, the average commute time extends slightly to 28 minutes, but the city compensates with a robust public transit system, scoring 9 out of 10, making it feasible to get by without a car. This contrast highlights the necessity to adapt to Seattle’s dynamic environment, leveraging transit services like the King County Metro and the Sound Transit for efficient daily navigation.
Additional Resources
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