Moving from Anchorage to Portland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Anchorage to Portland Movers

Moving from the rugged wilderness of Anchorage, AK to the eclectic vibes of Portland, OR, is more than a relocation; it's an exciting chapter in your life. Exchanging the serene Northern Lights and majestic moose of "The Last Frontier" for the artisan coffee shops and lush greenery of "Rose City" promises a diverse tapestry of experiences. We understand the significance of this journey, underscoring why partnering with trusted and reliable professional movers is paramount for such a long-distance move.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Anchorage guide.

5 Best Anchorage to Portland Movers

These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

#1
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 605+ data points

Oregon City, OR
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Senior Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT: 1999959 Verify

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 Metro...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in salem 2023 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2022 northwest grace moving image
#2
You Move Me Portland Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,680+ data points

Portland, OR
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2388358 Verify

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 l...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in portland 2023 you move me portland image
top 10 ranked movers in portland 2022 you move me portland image
#3
T
Good

based on 232+ data points

Anchorage, AK
Local Residential Moving, Local Commercial Moving, Out-of-State Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 807379 Verify

About The Moving Man

The Moving Man is a family-owned and operated full-service moving company based in Anchorage, Alaska since 1992. Their service area includes...Read More >>

top 10 anchorage 2024 the moving man image
#4
Air Van Moving Logo
Below Average

based on 40+ data points

Anchorage, AK
Residential Moving, Commercial and Office Moving, Long-Distance Moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 125012 Verify

About Air Van Moving

Air Van Moving is a professional moving company that is based in Alaska and the Northwest. Whether it is across town, across the country, or...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2021 air van moving image
top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2020 air van moving image
#5
Royal Alaskan Movers Logo
Below Average

based on 338+ data points

Anchorage, AK
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2077580 Verify

About Royal Alaskan Movers

Royal Alaskan Movers is a professional moving company that has been serving clients in Anchorage, Alaska, and its surrounding areas since 20...Read More >>

top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2023 royal alaskan movers image
top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2022 royal alaskan movers image
top 10 ranked movers in anchorage 2021 royal alaskan movers image

Relocating from Anchorage to Portland Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting. To help bridge the gap between the familiar and the new, we’re comparing neighborhoods between Anchorage, AK & Portland, OR . This comparison aims to help you find a neighborhood in Portland that feels like home, based on what you love about Anchorage.

AnchoragePortland
South AdditionSellwood-Moreland

Family-friendly, historic

Rogers ParkLaurelhurst

Serene, with a central park

TurnagainBridlemile

Residential, surrounded by nature

Bootleggers CovePearl District

Trendy, waterfront living

SpenardMississippi

Artsy, with a vibrant nightlife

Hillside EastForest Park

Expansive green spaces, secluded

Bayshore/KlattEastmoreland

Affluent, with lush parks

Rabbit CreekWest Hills

Upscale, with stunning views

Mountain ViewAlberta Arts District

Cultural hub, diverse

Government HillSt. Johns

Community-oriented, historic charm

Finding a Portland neighborhood that resonates with what you cherish about your Anchorage neighborhood can ease the transition. For instance, if Rogers Park's peaceful environment and central location appealed to you, Laurelhurst's tranquil streets, iconic Laurelhurst Park, and beautiful Craftsman homes will feel comforting. On the other hand, if you're drawn to Spenard's artistic flair and lively ambiance, the Mississippi Avenue area in Portland will captivate you with its eclectic mix of boutique shops, restaurants like Lovely's Fifty-Fifty, and vibrant street art. Embracing these comparably spirited neighborhoods could help make your move feel less like starting over and more like coming home to a new city.

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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 Anchorage to Portland

Moving from one city to another is a complex decision that requires weighing the good and the bad. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the ups and downs of relocating from Anchorage, AK to Portland, OR . By laying out the pros and cons side by side, you can make a more informed decision about this significant change.

CONs
PROs
Anchorage, AK iconAnchorage, AK
  • Harsh winters
  • Remote location
  • Fewer daylight hours in winter
  • Limited cultural events
  • Higher cost of living
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Milder winters
  • More accessible
  • More balanced daylight
  • Rich cultural scene
  • More affordable options
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Urban environment
  • Fewer wilderness areas
  • Less wildlife
  • More populated
  • More transient population
Anchorage, AK iconAnchorage, AK
  • Natural beauty
  • Outdoor activities
  • Wildlife sightings
  • Less crowded
  • Strong sense of community

Moving from Anchorage to Portland brings a spectrum of changes. In Portland, you'll find yourself amidst a vibrant cultural scene, with events and activities sprawling across the city. From the celebrated Portland Farmers Market to the historical Pittock Mansion, there's always something to do. The city's neighborhoods, such as the bustling Pearl District and the quaint Mississippi Avenue, offer a diverse range of restaurants, parks, and shops. Despite the urban environment, Portland does offer green spaces like the expansive Washington Park, providing a slice of nature within the city. This contrast to Anchorage's wilderness and lower population density could be a significant change, but it's offset by Portland's warmth, accessibility, and community activities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Anchorage to Portland

This comparison of the local cuisine between Anchorage & Portland illustrates the vibrant and diverse food scenes that contribute to the cultural fabric of both cities. Knowing the culinary landscape can enhance your relocation experience, letting you dive into the flavors that define each city.

AnchoragePortland

Most iconic local food item

King Crab LegsDonuts

Most popular meat dish

Reindeer SausagePork Belly

Most popular street food item

Hali'imaile General StoreFood Carts

Most popular vegan food

Black Bean BurgerTempeh Reuben

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Simon & Seafort's
  • Glacier Brewhouse
  • Moose's Tooth
  • Pok Pok
  • Screen Door
  • Le Pigeon

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

89

Abundance of Food Trucks

610

Foodie Scene

710

Vegan Friendly

710

When moving from Anchorage to Portland, you'll transition from a cuisine that heavily features seafood and game meats to one that embodies a diverse and vibrant food cart culture. In Portland, neighborhoods like Alberta Arts District and Hawthorne Boulevard are paradises for foodies, offering an abundance of both gourmet and street food options that cater to every palate, including an impressive array of vegan choices. Iconic destinations like Pok Pok and Screen Door highlight the city's love affair with creative and diverse culinary expressions, making your move to Portland a delightful journey for your taste buds.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Anchorage to Portland

Finding a place that feels like home in a new city often starts with discovering its culinary landscape. This comparison bridges the gap by connecting Anchorage's top dining experiences with their Portland equivalents, making your transition smoother. Anchorage's top eateries compared to Portland's dining scene aims to simplify your quest for your next favorite restaurant.

Moose's Tooth Pub & PizzeriaApizza Scholls

For their equally inventive and highly lauded pizza creations.

Snow City CafeMothers Bistro & Bar

Both offer a cozy atmosphere with a focus on hearty, comfort breakfasts and brunches.

Glacier BrewHouseDeschutes Brewery Portland Public House

Known for their house-made brews and Pacific Northwest inspired menus.

Sullivan's SteakhouseRingside Steakhouse

For that classic steakhouse experience with a touch for excellence in meat quality.

Simon & Seafort's Saloon & GrillJake's Famous Crawfish

Offering similarly iconic seafood dishes with a long history.

OrsoNostrana

For Italian cuisine that bridges traditional roots with a modern flair, similar to Orso's approach.

Humpy's Great Alaskan AlehouseMcMenamins Kennedy School

Both are multifaceted venues known for their local beer selection and live entertainment.

49th State Brewing CoBreakside Brewery

Both acclaimed for their exceptional and innovative craft beers.

The Crow's NestPortland City Grill

Both provide a fine dining experience with impressive city views.

South Restaurant + CoffeehouseTasty n Alder

For modern, upscale diner vibes with a strong emphasis on quality and creativity in their dishes.

Exploring Portland's culinary scene starts with finding echoes of Anchorage's flavors, such as the comforting, hearty breakfasts of Snow City Cafe mirrored in Mothers Bistro & Bar's lovingly crafted dishes. For pizza aficionados, the transition from Moose's Tooth's inventive pies to Apizza Scholls' equally commendable creations is seamless, promising a slice of heaven in both cities. Diners seeking the warmth of a fine ale alongside elevated pub fare will appreciate the kinship between Humpy's Great Alaskan Alehouse and McMenamins Kennedy School, both treasured for their engaging atmospheres and broad beer selections. Portland extends an encompassing welcome to fans of Anchorage's dining staples, ensuring the move doesn't mean leaving your palate behind.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Anchorage to Portland

Real estate significantly impacts your relocation decision. Understanding how Anchorage, AK and Portland, OR compare in terms of housing costs , style , and lifestyle features is crucial when planning a move. This comparison aims to give you a comprehensive overview.

When examining housing trends between Anchorage and Portland , it becomes apparent that Portland offers a more urban lifestyle , as indicated by its higher walkability and bikeability scores. This reflects Portland's dense, vibrant urban core, which contrasts Anchorage's sprawling, nature-integrated layout. Meanwhile, the typical architecture in Anchorage leans towards modern two-story homes and ranches, reflecting the city's blend of practicality and connection to the surrounding wilderness. Portland, known for its charming Craftsman houses and historic Old Portland styles, showcases a rich architectural heritage. The most popular items in real estate listings further highlight this dichotomy: Anchorage's listings often boast about natural features like mountain views , while Portland's listings highlight proximity to parks and eco-friendly amenities , illustrating the cities' distinct approaches to integrating nature and urban living.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, OR

1.  Pearl District : Known for its modern, upscale vibe, the Pearl District is pet-friendly thanks to its numerous pet stores, dog-friendly restaurants, and the Fields Park, a popular spot for dog owners.

2.  Northwest District : This neighborhood offers easy access to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the US, with numerous trails for you and your pet to explore, plus a variety of pet-friendly cafes and bars.

3.  Sellwood-Moreland : With a more laid-back, residential feel, Sellwood-Moreland is great for pets due to its welcoming community, several parks, and the Sellwood Riverfront Park which provides a great space for dogs to play and swim.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Anchorage to Portland

When planning a move from one location to another, it's essential to grasp how the weather will shift, especially when transitioning from Anchorage, AK to Portland, OR. Understanding these changes can significantly impact your daily life and activities.

Summer icon
55°F/65°F

Anchorage, AK

58°F/81°F

Portland, OR

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
5°F/30°F

Anchorage, AK

36°F/47°F

Portland, OR

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
16.5

Anchorage, AK

43.5

Portland, OR

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
75

Anchorage, AK

4

Portland, OR

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Anchorage to Portland, you'll experience a warmer climate with milder winters and hotter summers. Portland sees more rainfall, contributing to its lush, green landscape compared to Anchorage's drier condition. However, both cities share a similar annual UV index, indicating a moderate risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Adapting to Portland's environment may also require readiness for its frequent rain rather than snow and its higher humidity level, impacting daily comfort and outdoor activities.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Anchorage to Portland

When considering a move from one location to another, it's vital to compare the cost of living and overall financial landscape to better prepare for the transition. By examining the differences between Anchorage, AK, and Portland, OR, you can gain insights into how your finances might be affected.

While Anchorage boasts a higher average household income and no state income or sales tax, indicating potentially more financial freedom, Portland's higher cost of living index and state income tax may impact disposable income. However, Portland's thriving technology, manufacturing, and healthcare industries could offer diverse job opportunities not found in Anchorage. Despite the apparent financial advantages in Anchorage, the detailed aspects of each city's economy, such as industry opportunities and the tax structure, play a crucial role in understanding the real picture of relocating from Anchorage, AK, to Portland, OR.

Political & Religious Comparison between Anchorage, AK and Portland, OR

This quick comparison aims to provide you with an overview of the political and religious makeup of the residents when moving from Anchorage, AK to Portland, OR . Understand at a glance how the communities' beliefs and political affiliations may impact your experience in your new city.

AnchoragePortland

Political Make-up

Moderate, with a mix of conservative and liberal viewsHighly liberal

Local Politics

Competitive balance between Democrat and Republican influenceStrong Democratic leaning

Religion

Mixed, with Christian communities playing a significant role. Churches in AnchorageMore secular, but diverse religious communities exist. Portland's cultural sites

In Anchorage, you might notice a more balanced political landscape, where both conservative and liberal views have substantial representation. This diversity culminates in competitive local politics, reflective of the city's mixed political makeup. In contrast, Portland is recognized for its strongly liberal stance, often mirrored in local policies and social movements. Despite its more secular nature, Portland hosts a variety of religious communities and places of worship, promoting cultural and spiritual diversity within its urban landscape. Both cities, however, present opportunities for engagement and community involvement, regardless of your political or religious affiliations.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Anchorage to Portland

Moving from Anchorage, AK, to Portland, OR, heralds significant changes, especially in daily commute and traffic experiences . This comparison aims to provide a clearer understanding of what to expect when transitioning from the roads of Anchorage to those of Portland.

AnchoragePortland
2026

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

47

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

48

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

ChallengingFeasible

Can you get by without car?

Moving from Anchorage to Portland, you'll notice that your average commute time may slightly increase, reflecting Portland's denser traffic conditions. Portland’s higher traffic congestion score indicates more frequent and prolonged peak hours, a stark contrast to the more free-flowing Anchorage roads. However, Portland compensates with a robust public transit system, making car-free living significantly more feasible than in Anchorage. Exploring Portland’s diverse neighborhoods, attractions, and amenities becomes convenient with the city’s extensive bus and rail lines, underscoring a key lifestyle transition as you adapt to your new home.

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