Best Seattle to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Seattle to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 3,041 mile move from Washington to Maine go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 37 Seattle to Portland 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 $3,000 - $10,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Seattle compared to Portland. 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 Seattle to Portland 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 | You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | 9.4 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 4 | SC Moving Services | 9.19 | 9.35 | Active | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Seattle to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 3,041 miles from Seattle, WA to Portland, ME will cost on average $4,367 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Seattle to Portland move is roughly $10,566. 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 | $2,927 | 300 ft³ | 9.76 |
| 1 Bedroom | $4,367 | 450 ft³ | 9.71 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $7,241 | 750 ft³ | 9.66 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $10,566 | 1100 ft³ | 9.61 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $15,288 | 1600 ft³ | 9.56 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $17,109 | 1800 ft³ | 9.51 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Seattle guide.
Compare the 5 Best Seattle to Portland 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) |
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) |
SC Moving Services
25 Augusta St
South Portland, ME, 04106
About SC Moving Services
SC Moving Services is a family-owned and operated business located in South Portland, offering a wide range of services to Southern...
Services
- Cheap moving services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2324405 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 10,000 (2016) |
People Movers
11808 NE 160th St
Bothell, WA, 98011
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle...
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2895681 / 1597195 Authorized For Property Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 2 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 25,000 (2023) |
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.
Seattle vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Relocating can be daunting, but finding a familiar neighborhood can make it easier. This guide aims to assist by using your current city as a baseline. Discover popular areas and their similarities between Seattle, WA and Portland, ME , helping you feel at home faster.
| Seattle | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Capitol Hill | East End | Vibrant arts scene and nightlife |
| Ballard | West End | Historic charm with diverse dining |
| Fremont | Bayside | Quirky, eclectic community vibe |
| Queen Anne | Eastern Promenade | Scenic views and upscale homes |
| Belltown | Old Port | Busy streets with trendy shops |
| Green Lake | Deering Center | Family-friendly with green spaces |
| West Seattle | North Deering | Suburban feel near water |
| Pike Place | Monument Square | Lively marketplace area |
| South Lake Union | Downtown | Tech hub with modern amenities |
| Georgetown | Libbytown | Industrial area with creative spaces |
If you enjoy Capitol Hill's vibrant atmosphere, you'll find similar energy in the East End of Portland. The rich arts scene, local music venues, and lively dining spots make it a lively hub. For lovers of historic architecture and varied culinary offerings, Ballard's charm finds its echo in West End, with its quaint streets and popular eateries such as The Union. Meanwhile, Fremont's quirky spirit is mirrored in Bayside, where eclectic shops and inventive restaurants offer a distinctive experience. Queen Anne's scenic views are echoed in Eastern Promenade, boasting expansive green spaces like Fort Allen Park for you to explore and enjoy.
Things to Do in Portland
Walk along the Eastern Promenade- Explore Portland Museum of Art
- Shop at Portland Farmers' Market
- Catch a show at State Theatre
- Dine in the Old Port District
- Visit Children's Museum & Theatre
- Bike the Greenbelt Walkway
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Portland
Considering a move from Seattle, WA to Portland, ME can be both exciting and daunting. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad you might encounter in both cities, helping you understand what makes Seattle unique and what might await you in Portland.
Seattle, WA- Overcast skies
- High cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Earthquake risks
Portland, ME- More sunny days
- More affordable housing
- Simpler commutes
- Lower natural disaster likelihood
Portland, ME- Less tech job opportunities
- Fewer restaurant choices
- Fewer hiking options
- Limited entertainment
Seattle, WA- Vibrant tech scene
- Diverse culinary options
- Proximity to mountains
- Rich cultural attractions
While Seattle's diverse culinary scene offers a myriad of flavors from established favorites like Canlis and Salty's, you'll find Portland's simpler but charming alternatives, such as Central Provisions, provide a more relaxed dining experience. For outdoor lovers, Seattle's proximity to the Cascades offers unparalleled hiking and nature experiences compared to Portland's more limited but equally beautiful trails around Back Cove or Eastern Promenade. Both cities boast unique atmospheres; Seattle's tech-driven community contrasts with Portland's focus on local arts and small businesses, as seen in areas like Capitol Hill compared to Portland's Waterfront district.
Seattle vs. Portland Food Guide
Food is a crucial aspect of local culture, influencing what it's like to live in an area. In this comparison of culinary landscapes, you'll explore the distinct flavors and dining experiences you can expect when moving from Seattle to Portland .
| Seattle | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Lobster Roll |
| Most popular meat dish | Smoked Salmon | Lobster |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Clam Chowder |
| Most popular vegan food | Grilled Tofu | Stuffed Peppers |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness (out of 10) | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks (out of 10) | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene (out of 10) | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly (out of 10) | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
As you settle into Portland, be sure to explore its vibrant seafood offerings, particularly in the Old Port district where local favorites like Eventide Oyster Co. serve up fresh lobster rolls. Portland's burgeoning food truck scene is a must-experience, with creative and diverse options that reflect the city's innovative culinary spirit. While Seattle boasts a strong vegan culture with eateries like Plum Bistro offering delicious plant-based meals, Portland is equally friendly to vegan and vegetarian diets. This shared aspect provides a good transition, ensuring you'll find familiar dining options in your new city. Additionally, the focus on health and fitness remains prevalent, allowing you to maintain a balanced lifestyle as you discover Portland's unique gastronomic landscape.
Seattle vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Food plays a pivotal role in making an area feel like home, and comparing Seattle and Portland’s culinary scene helps identify your future favorite eateries by using familiar favorites as a guide.
| Seattle | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Fore Street | Gourmet dining with a focus on local ingredients |
| Pike Place Chowder | Eventide Oyster Co. | Both are renowned for their extraordinary seafood options |
| Toulouse Petit | Central Provisions | Offers a culinary adventure with small plates and bold flavors |
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | Scales | Both highlight fresh, expertly prepared seafood |
| Din Tai Fung | Empire Chinese Kitchen | Known for excellent dumplings and Asian specialties |
| Salumi | Big Tree Grocery | Offers high-quality meats with a focus on Italian flavors |
| Mama's Mexican Kitchen | El Rayo Taqueria | Offers comfort Mexican food with a welcoming atmosphere |
| Beecher's Handmade Cheese | Cabot Farmer's Annex | Local focus on artisanal cheeses |
| Serious Pie | Otto Pizza | Celebrated for their creative and flavorful pizzas |
| The Pink Door | Grace | Both provide eclectic dining with unique atmospheres |
If you're a seafood aficionado, you'll find solace at Eventide Oyster Co., reminiscent of Seattle's famous Pike Place Chowder, both celebrated for their dedication to seafood excellence. Love dumplings? Discover the charm of Empire Chinese Kitchen, where delicate dumplings and a range of Asian delights will remind you of your favorite meals at Din Tai Fung. And for those who savor artisan cheeses, Cabot Farmer's Annex champions the tradition of local craftsmanship that echoes the standards of Beecher's Handmade Cheese. Each spot brings its own Portland twist, ensuring your culinary adventures continue without missing a beat.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. It's crucial to understand how the housing landscapes of Seattle and Portland compare when considering relocation. This comparison highlights cost , statistics , and lifestyle aspects of housing in both cities.
| Comparison | Seattle | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Colonial |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Lake views, Smart homes | Rustic charm, Oceanfront properties |
When considering the move from Seattle to Portland, the contrast in housing markets is significant. Seattle, with its iconic Craftsman homes , tends to offer lake views and high-tech smart homes that are reflected in its higher median prices. Meanwhile, Portland embraces a more classic Colonial architecture and offers more affordable real estate, often highlighting rustic charm and oceanfront properties. Both cities provide vibrant urban lifestyles, though Seattle's is somewhat more dynamic with an overall higher walkability and bikeability score. Exploring local listings online, or visiting neighborhoods such as Seattle's Queen Anne or Portland's Old Port, can further enhance your understanding of these differences.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, ME
1. Munjoy Hill : With its close proximity to the Eastern Promenade, this vibrant neighborhood offers easy access to parks and walking trails that you and your pet will love exploring together.
2. West End : Known for its tree-lined streets and pet-friendly cafes, the West End is a welcoming community with plenty of spots for you and your furry friend to enjoy, like the popular Tandem Coffee + Bakery.
3. East End : This neighborhood boasts several parks and open spaces that are ideal for pets, and you can often find other pet owners mingling at Rising Tide Brewing Company, which welcomes leashed dogs in their outdoor beer garden.
Seattle vs. Portland Weather Considerations
If you're relocating from Seattle, WA to Portland, ME , understanding how the weather differs between these two cities is crucial. It helps you prepare for changes in climate and adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
Seattle, WA
Portland, ME
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Portland, ME
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Portland, ME
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Portland, ME
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes | Nor'easters |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When transitioning from Seattle to Portland, you'll encounter distinct weather patterns. While Seattle is known for its mild, wet climate, Portland boasts a more dramatic seasonal contrast, with colder winters that bring significant snowfall. Portland also enjoys more sun-filled days annually, encouraging outdoor activities. Despite the annual rainfall being higher in Portland, the humidity level remains slightly lower than in Seattle, contributing to its invigorating climate. Adapting to the weather variations can make your move smoother and more enjoyable.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Portland
When contemplating a move from Seattle, WA to Portland, ME , understanding differences in the cost of living is crucial. This comparison will help you adjust financially and plan for a seamless transition between these two unique locations.
| Comparison | Seattle | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $70,244 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 116.5 |
| State Income Tax | 0% | 5% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.95% | 1.30% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1% | 5.5% |
| Top 3 Industries | Tech, Aerospace, Biotechnology | Healthcare, Retail, Education |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Low |
As you transition from Seattle to Portland, an important consideration is the cost of living, which is slightly lower in Portland. While Seattle doesn't have a state income tax, you'll encounter a 5% state income tax in Portland. Property taxes are also somewhat higher in Portland, but this is offset by a lower sales tax. Understanding these differences can help you budget more effectively and prioritize savings in Portland.
Seattle vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
This guide provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents by presenting a comparison of the politics between Seattle & Portland . Understanding these elements can give you insights into the community you’ll be joining.
| Seattle | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive | Progressive |
| Religion | Less religious | Less religious |
While both Seattle and Portland lean liberal, you may find varying levels of progressive policies when it comes to local politics. In Seattle, local government initiatives frequently emphasize sustainability and technology innovation. Similarly, Portland promotes environmental consciousness, evident through numerous eco-friendly policies. Despite different historical backgrounds, both cities are known for their less religious populations, allowing for a diverse and inclusive atmosphere. This might be the perfect backdrop if you enjoy communities that prioritize progressive values and environmental consciousness.
Seattle vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This guide offers a comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Seattle & Portland to help you better understand what the daily commute might entail. Whether you're considering driving or using public transit, knowing these differences can help you plan your move and adjust to your new city.
| Comparison | Seattle | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 23 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possibly | Yes |
Transitioning from Seattle to Portland offers some differences in your daily commute. While Seattle's average commute time is slightly longer, Portland generally experiences less congestion, which can make your drive more pleasant. Plus, if you plan on using public transit, Portland ranks higher in availability, boasting extensive networks of buses, light rails, and even a bike-friendly atmosphere. This means you’ll not only find it easier to navigate without a car in Portland, but commuting might also provide you with more options to enjoy your daily journey.
Additional Resources
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Popular Seattle to Maine Routes
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