Best Tacoma to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
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If you're moving from Tacoma to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 143 mile move from Washington to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 35 Tacoma to Portland 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 John Volken Academy Movers), 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma to Portland Moving Companies
| Rank | Company Name | Rating  | Affordability Index | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | John Volken Academy Movers | 9.33 | 9.65 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 2 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.28 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| 3 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 4 | First Due Movers | 9.25 | 9.06 | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| 5 | People Movers | 9.16 | 9.54 | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428Cost to Move from Tacoma to Portland
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 143 miles from Tacoma, WA to Portland, OR will cost on average $1,903 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Tacoma to Portland move is roughly $4,541. 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 | $1,284 | 300 ft³ | 4.28 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,903 | 450 ft³ | 4.23 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $3,134 | 750 ft³ | 4.18 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $4,541 | 1100 ft³ | 4.13 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $6,526 | 1600 ft³ | 4.08 |
| 5+ Bedrooms | $7,251 | 1800 ft³ | 4.03 |
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Tacoma guide.
Compare the 5 Best Tacoma to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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) |
First Due Movers
8126 304th Ave SE
Preston, WA, 98050
About First Due Movers
First Due Movers is based in Preston, Washington, but offers nationwide moving services. The company is actually owned by local Washington...
Services
- Residential Moves
- Commercial Moves
- Long-Distance Moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1990914 / 865709 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 12 |
| Registered Drivers | 20 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 205,000 (2022) |
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.
Tacoma vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be a daunting task, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we've compared local neighborhoods between Tacoma, WA & Portland, OR . This comparison aims to help you find a Portland neighborhood that mirrors the character and charm of your current Tacoma locale, making your move feel like you've hardly left home.
| Tacoma | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| North End | Irvington | Historic homes and tree-lined streets |
| Stadium District | Nob Hill | Vibrant nightlife and historic architecture |
| Proctor District | Alberta Arts District | Eclectic shops and local arts scene |
| Old Town | Pearl District | Revitalized warehouses and upscale amenities |
| Hilltop | Mississippi | Diverse community and rich cultural history |
| Lincoln District | Hawthorne | Bohemian vibe and ethnic restaurants |
| South Tacoma | Woodstock | Family-friendly with a mix of urban and suburban |
| Eastside | Montavilla | Affordable homes and community-centric vibe |
| West End | Sellwood-Moreland | Quiet, with access to parks and antiques |
| Central Tacoma | Lents | Up-and-coming with a youthful energy |
In exploring these neighborhoods further, if you’ve enjoyed the historic charm and the vibrant community atmosphere of Tacoma's Proctor District, you'll find a similar cultural heartbeat in Portland's Alberta Arts District. With its array of eclectic shops, such as the Hello! Bulk Markets, and pop-up art scenes, it's a hub for both locals and visitors seeking unique experiences. For those who loved Hilltop's diversity and rich cultural tapestry, Mississippi Avenue in Portland offers a similar allure, hosting events like the Mississippi Street Fair, reflecting the city's dynamic community spirit. Lastly, if the scenic views and quiet residential feel of Tacoma's West End appealed to you, the Sellwood-Moreland neighborhood in Portland, with its easy access to the Sellwood Park and a wealth of antique shops, might just feel like home.
Things to Do in Portland
Hike in Forest Park- Stroll through Portland Japanese Garden
- Enjoy food carts at various locations
- Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
- Explore Powell's City of Books
- Sample brews on a craft brewery tour
- Watch a movie at Cinema 21
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Tacoma to Portland
Moving from one city to another can be a big decision. To help weigh your options, we've created charts to reflect the pros and cons of relocating from Tacoma, WA to Portland, OR . These charts aim to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping you make a more informed decision.
Tacoma, WA- Higher crime rates
- Less bike-friendly
- Fewer green spaces
- Smaller arts scene
- Higher cost of living
Portland, OR- Lower crime rates
- More bike-friendly
- More parks and gardens
- Larger arts community
- More affordable housing
Portland, OR- More crowded
- Higher traffic congestion
- Farther from major cities
- Less community engagement
- Higher state income tax
Tacoma, WA- Vibrant local culture
- Breathtaking waterfront views
- Proximity to Seattle
- Strong community feel
- Lower sales tax
When moving from Tacoma to Portland, you're not just changing your address; you're stepping into a different lifestyle. Portland's vibrant arts scene, highlighted by establishments like the Portland Art Museum and indie theaters like the Hollywood Theatre, offers rich cultural experiences. The city's bike-friendly nature, supported by an extensive network of bike lanes and the Biketown bike-share program, provides a healthy and eco-friendly commuting option. On the other hand, while Tacoma has its charms, including beautiful waterfront parks such as Ruston Way, Portland encourages a more active outdoor lifestyle with its numerous green spaces like the expansive Washington Park. However, it's important to consider that moving to Portland may come with challenges, such as dealing with more traffic and potentially higher state income taxes.
Tacoma vs. Portland Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Tacoma & Portland, highlighting how food plays a pivotal role in understanding the cultural landscape of an area. As you plan your move, this comparison will help you get acquainted with what awaits your palate.
| Tacoma | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Dungeness Crab | Voodoo Doughnut |
| Most popular meat dish | Philly Cheesesteak | Pork Belly Cubano |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Carts Fare |
| Most popular vegan food | Vegetable Pho | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, the food scene is a vibrant tapestry interwoven with local and international flavors. With its famed food carts scattered across neighborhoods like the Pearl District and Alberta Street, you can embark on a culinary tour that spans continents within blocks. Iconic eateries such as Pok Pok offer tantalizing Thai flavors, while Screen Door presents Southern cuisine with a Northwest twist. Portland's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its vegan offerings, like the imaginative dishes at Back to Eden Bakery, making it a paradise for food lovers of all preferences.
Tacoma vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Finding your new favorite eatery in Portland by using Tacoma as a guide is crucial for food enthusiasts looking to make their move feel like home. This restaurant comparison will ease the transition, ensuring you don't miss out on the flavors you love.
| Tacoma | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Indochine Asian Dining Lounge | Departure Restaurant + Lounge | Modern Asian cuisine with a stylish, upscale vibe |
| Moshy's | Lardo | For a diverse take on sandwiches with a creative twist |
| The Table | Tusk | Farm-to-table offerings that elevate the dining experience |
| Marzano's | Nostrana | Classic Italian cuisine with a focus on quality and tradition |
| Boathouse 19 | Meriwether’s Restaurant | Seafood and steak with a focus on local sourcing |
| Engine House No. 9 | Breakside Brewery | Known for craft beers and a hearty, eclectic menu |
| El Borracho | Taqueria Nueve | Authentic Mexican dishes with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Over the Moon Cafe | Coeur Coffeehouse | Cozy cafe environment with premium coffees and light fare |
| En Rama | Pepe Le Moko | Intimate setting with inventive cocktails and small plates |
| Stanley & Seafort's | Portland City Grill | Breathtaking city views with a menu to match |
In the heart of Portland, food lovers migrating from Tacoma will find a seamless transition with a diverse culinary landscape that echoes the familiar comfort and innovation of their favorite Tacoma eateries. For instance, Departure Restaurant + Lounge mirrors the modern, sophisticated flair and Asian culinary adventure of Indochine Asian Dining Lounge. Meanwhile, Lardo's inventive sandwiches offer a complex, flavorful twist much like Moshy's, making it a must-visit for anyone craving a unique, satisfying bite. Nostrana, with its traditional Italian dishes, serves as a culinary counterpart to Marzano's, offering Portland's foodies a slice of Italy reminiscent of the quality and ambiance they cherished back home. This transition is not just about moving locations but about finding the essence of your favorite Tacoma dining experiences reflected in the heart of Portland's vibrant culinary scene.
Ready to start your move?
Tacoma vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, comparing the real estate market between your current and future cities is crucial for making an informed decision. Understand how Tacoma and Portland's housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle aspects compare to ease your transition.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Victorian & Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views of Mount Rainier, Large Yards | Eco-friendly Features, Proximity to Parks |
While both Tacoma and Portland offer unique living experiences, there are notable differences. In Tacoma, you'll find more affordable housing options, with a focus on Craftsman-style homes boasting views of Mount Rainier. The city provides a balanced urban lifestyle, although it's not as walkable or bikeable as Portland. On the other hand, Portland emphasizes eco-friendly living and is known for its Victorian and Craftsman architecture. It offers a higher urban lifestyle rating, thanks in part to its great walkability and bikeability, alongside its numerous parks and green spaces. This emphasis on sustainable living and convenient access to green spaces makes Portland a distinctive choice for environmentally conscious individuals.
Tacoma vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Tacoma, WA to Portland, OR, one of the key factors to consider is how the weather compares in these two cities. Understanding the differences can help you prepare for changes in climate, air quality, and seasonal allergies that might affect your daily life and comfort.
Tacoma, WA
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Tacoma, WA
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Tacoma, WA
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Tacoma | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Rain, Snow, Earthquakes | Rain, Snow, Earthquakes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In considering your move from Tacoma, WA to Portland, OR, you'll find both cities offer a similar climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. However, Portland experiences slightly higher summer temperatures and less annual rainfall, which might be a pleasant change if you're seeking more sunny days. Both cities experience their fair share of rain, but Tacoma receives a bit more annually. Air quality in Portland tends to be moderate compared to Tacoma's generally good air quality, a factor that could be significant if you have respiratory sensitivities. Understanding these variations can help you adjust more comfortably to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Tacoma to Portland
When planning a move, it’s vital to consider the financial implications of the change in location. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Tacoma compare to those in Portland can help you make an informed decision.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $77,141 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 109.5 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.1 | 1.0 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.2 | 0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | High | Very high |
When moving from Tacoma to Portland, it’s important to note the significant differences in the cost of living and taxation. Portland has a noticeably higher average household income, which is balanced against its higher cost of living index. Taxation is also quite different between the two cities, with Washington state imposing no income tax, contrasting sharply with Oregon's high state income tax. However, Portland benefits from a lack of sales tax, which can ease the financial burden on daily purchases. The industries thriving in each city reflect their economic diversity and opportunities for employment, though the affluence and poverty levels may impact the socio-economic environment you’re stepping into.
Tacoma vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
Considering a move from Tacoma, WA, to Portland, OR? A key factor in feeling at home in a new city is understanding the community you're joining. This comparison offers a quick glimpse into the political and religious makeup of Tacoma & Portland, outlining what you might expect from your future neighbors.
| Tacoma | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Leans Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Moderate, Community-focused | Progressive, Environmentally focused |
| Religion | Variety, including Christian, Non-religious | Primarily Non-religious, Diverse beliefs |
When comparing Tacoma to Portland, you'll find both cities lean Democratic, though Portland is known for its particularly strong progressive stances, especially concerning environmental policies and initiatives. Local politics in Tacoma tend to have a more moderate, community-centered approach, while Portland's local government pushes more progressive agendas. In terms of religion, Tacoma presents a blend of Christianity among other beliefs with a noticeable portion of non-religious residents, similar to Portland, which is among the cities with the highest percentage of non-religious people. This reflects a broader trend of diversity in belief systems in both cities, allowing newcomers a chance to find communities that resonate with their personal beliefs and values.
Tacoma vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Tacoma & Portland is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you consider moving. Knowing the differences can aid in making a more informed decision about your potential new home city.
| Comparison | Tacoma | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 29 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Challenging | Easier |
While both Tacoma and Portland offer unique living experiences, Portland emerges as a more transit-friendly city with its higher availability of public transit, rated 8 out of 10. The average commute time in Portland is also slightly shorter at 25 minutes, compared to Tacoma's 29 minutes. Portland's efficient public transportation system, including buses, light rail, and streetcars, facilitates an easier lifestyle without a car. Conversely, getting by without a car in Tacoma is deemed more challenging, making it essential for residents to plan their daily commutes and living arrangements accordingly. Traffic congestion in Portland is rated higher, likely due to the more extensive public transportation network and bike lanes reducing road space for cars.
Additional Resources
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