Best Oakland to Portland Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling tech hubs and cultural melting pot of Oakland to the lush, quirky vibes of Portland is an adventure filled with excitement and new beginnings. You're trading in the iconic Bay Area fog for the Rose City's renowned coffee shops, bike paths, and a distinct, laid-back lifestyle. Given the distance and logistics involved, ensuring your journey is smooth hinges on hiring trusted, reliable professional movers, which is why we use an unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best options for your big move.
Best Oakland to Portland Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| All Service Moving | 9.27 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Fairprice Movers | 8.87 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Upline Moving | 8.60 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Oakland guide.
5 Best Oakland to Portland Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
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 >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
This listing has been claimed by All Service MovingAbout All Service Moving
Based in Portland, OR, Willamette Valley Moving has provided moving services in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho for over 18 years. By using a ...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
About Fairprice Movers
Established in 2012, Fairprice Movers is a moving company headquartered in San Jose, California. The company offers a highly personalized mo...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial and Office Moving
About Upline Moving
For smooth local, statewide, and nationwide residential relocations, Upline Moving is your trusted partner. Based in Hayward, it serves the ...Read More >>
Services
- Residential movers
- Long distance movers
- Local movers
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.
Oakland vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can often feel like stepping into the unknown, especially when it's to a city you're not familiar with. To ease this transition, we've prepared a comparison of local neighborhoods between Oakland, CA & Portland, OR . This guide aims to help you find a new neighborhood that mirrors the charm, community, and vibe of your current one, making your move as seamless as possible.
| Oakland | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Rockridge | Nob Hill | Vibrant shopping & dining |
| Temescal | Alberta Arts District | Booming arts scene |
| Piedmont Avenue | Mississippi Avenue | Eclectic mix of shops |
| Montclair | Hillsdale | Serene residential area |
| Jack London Square | Pearl District | Waterfront & nightlife |
| Grand Lake | Hawthorne | Diverse & lively community |
| Lake Merritt | Laurelhurst | Scenic lake & park area |
| West Oakland | St. Johns | Historic with a strong community vibe |
| North Oakland | Richmond | Family-friendly & vibrant |
| Adams Point | Sellwood-Moreland | Charming & walkable |
In moving from Oakland's bustling Grand Lake neighborhood, known for its weekend farmers' market and proximity to Lake Merritt, you'll find a kindred spirit in Portland's Hawthorne District. Hawthorne offers a dynamic atmosphere where eclectic shops, mouth-watering restaurants like Apizza Scholls, and a mix of vintage and modern influences thrive. Similarly, if the historic and tight-knit feel of West Oakland appeals to you, St. Johns in Portland will instantly feel like home, with its iconic bridge, community events, and spots like the McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub adding to its charm. Both neighborhoods exemplify how community warmth and local gems can create a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for anyone looking to start afresh.
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 Oakland to Portland
Moving from Oakland, CA to Portland, OR is a significant change, with each city showcasing its unique charm and challenges. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, enabling you to weigh your decisions carefully. By examining both the pros and cons, you can prepare for the new experiences that Portland has to offer, while also appreciating what you might miss about Oakland.
Oakland, CA- Higher Crime Rates
- Costly Living Expenses
- Heavy Traffic
Portland, OR- Lower Crime Rates
- More Affordable
- Improved Transit Options
Portland, OR- More Rainfall
- Less Diverse
- Smaller Arts Scene
Oakland, CA- Warmer Climate
- Vibrant Diversity
- Rich Cultural Scene
Moving from Oakland to Portland introduces you to new experiences while leaving behind some familiar comforts. Oakland's vibrant communities like Temescal and Rockridge are bustling with diverse restaurants and shops, such as Cholita Linda and Rockridge Market Hall. On arriving in Portland, you'll discover neighborhoods like Alberta Arts District and Pearl District, where arts and culture thrive but in a different context. Portland's famous spots like Powell's City of Books and the natural beauty of Forest Park offer unique alternatives to the urban vibe of Oakland. Though Portland sees more rain, this contributes to the lush greenery and outdoor activities that are available year-round, creating a beautiful environment for newcomers to explore.
Oakland vs. Portland Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oakland & Portland, two vibrant cities each with their own unique food scenes. Understanding the nuances of local cuisine can deeply influence your perspective on what it's like to live there. Here, we aim to offer insights that will help you navigate your culinary journey in your new city.
| Oakland | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Donuts |
| Most popular meat dish | BBQ Brisket | Pork Belly |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Carts' Fusion Cuisine |
| Most popular vegan food | Impossible Burger | Vegan BBQ |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Oakland, the diverse and vibrant food scene is palpable in neighborhoods like Uptown and Jack London Square, where you can savor everything from the innovative Impossible Burger to authentic BBQ Brisket. Over in Portland, the city's legendary food cart pods, such as those along Hawthorne Boulevard, offer a plethora of inventive vegan options and global cuisines, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts. Iconic spots like Voodoo Doughnut and Pok Pok capture the city's eclectic and adventurous culinary spirit. Whether it’s the health-conscious eateries of Oakland or the vegan havens and food truck abundance in Portland, both cities offer a distinct taste that reflects their cultural and regional uniqueness.
Oakland vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
When moving to a new city, finding places that make you feel at home is essential, especially when it comes to food. This restaurant comparison between Oakland and Portland is designed to help you discover your next favorite dining spots, drawing parallels with familiar favorites from your current hometown.
| Oakland | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Commis | Le Pigeon | Both are intimate spaces offering innovative and artfully presented dishes. |
| Shakewell | Tusk | Middle Eastern influences with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. |
| Brown Sugar Kitchen | Screen Door | Both celebrate soulful, comfort food making them local brunch favorites. |
| Pizzaiolo | Lovely’s Fifty Fifty | Artisanal pizzas and a focus on seasonal toppings. |
| Ramen Shop | Afuri Ramen + Dumpling | Exceptional ramen with a focus on quality broth and ingredients. |
| Everett & Jones BBQ | Podnah’s Pit BBQ | Both committed to the craft of smoked meats and traditional sides. |
| The Cook and Her Farmer | Olympia Oyster Bar | A focus on seafood and farm-to-table dining experiences. |
| Donut Savant | Blue Star Donuts | Gourmet donuts with unique flavors and quality ingredients. |
| Mägo | Toro Bravo | Both offer a creative and modern take on their respective cuisines. |
| Ordinaire | Natural Wine Co. | Natural wines and a convivial atmosphere for wine lovers. |
Exploring new dining scenes can be an adventure, and this comparison offers a roadmap for you. For instance, just as Commis provides an exquisite dining experience in Oakland, Le Pigeon in Portland offers a similar culinary adventure with its innovative dishes. If you’re missing the cozy yet sophisticated vibe of Shakewell, Tusk’s Middle-Eastern influenced menu and emphasis on fresh, local produce will warmly welcome you to Portland. For those who have enjoyed the soulful, comfort food from Brown Sugar Kitchen, Screen Door awaits with its hearty, Southern-inspired dishes, ensuring you won't miss out on the flavors you've grown to love. You’ll find that each Portland restaurant not only mirrors the essence of your Oakland favorites but also introduces its unique charm, making your transition exciting and flavorful.
Ready to start your move?
Oakland vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes of your current and future cities is crucial. This comparison between Oakland and Portland will highlight the key factors to consider in terms of housing . It will give you a comprehensive understanding of what to expect in both cities, helping you make an informed decision for your relocation.
| Comparison | Oakland | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian, Craftsman | Northwest, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Bay views, proximity to San Francisco | Access to nature, sustainable features |
Both Oakland and Portland offer unique appeals in their housing markets. Oakland, with its Victorian and Craftsman homes, often features listings that boast of stunning Bay views and proximity to San Francisco, reflecting its urban edge. Portland, on the other hand, emphasizes access to nature and sustainable living, with its Northwest and Craftsman architectural styles. Notably, Portland edges out Oakland slightly in walkability and bikeability, which might appeal to you if an active, outdoors-oriented lifestyle is what you're after. Additionally, while both cities value an urban lifestyle, the cost of living in Portland—in terms of both home prices and rent—is notably lower, potentially offering you a more affordable move without sacrificing the vibrant lifestyle you're accustomed to.
Oakland vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Oakland, CA to Portland, OR, it's crucial to understand how the weather compares. This comparison will help you adapt more easily to your new environment, ensuring you're prepared for the different weather conditions you will experience. Knowing the differences between Oakland and Portland's climate can significantly affect your daily life and seasonal activities.
Oakland, CA
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oakland, CA
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oakland, CA
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oakland | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Wildfires | Earthquakes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Oakland to Portland means preparing for cooler winters and wetter conditions overall. While Oakland enjoys a mildly warm climate with plenty of sunshine, Portland's climate is characterized by more rainfall, especially during the winter months, leading to lush, green landscapes but requiring different wardrobe choices. The higher annual rainfall in Portland can significantly impact outdoor activities and lifestyle, making it essential to plan accordingly. Additionally, Portland experiences a higher humidity level than Oakland throughout the year, which can affect your daily comfort and may require a period of adjustment.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oakland to Portland
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to evaluate how the cost of living and financial landscape will shift. This comparison between Oakland and Portland offers a clear perspective on the economic differences you'll encounter, focusing on income, taxes, and housing to guide your financial planning effectively.
| Comparison | Oakland | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $82,236 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 139.1 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 9.3 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.79 | 0.91 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 9.25 | 0 (Oregon has no sales tax) |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Education | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Moderately affluent | Varies widely |
| Poverty | Significant | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | Very high |
Transitioning from Oakland to Portland, you'll notice a meaningful difference in the cost of living, with Portland being notably less expensive despite Oregon's slightly higher state income tax rate. However, the absence of a sales tax in Oregon can offset this discrepancy for many residents. Property taxes are marginally higher in Portland, reflecting Oregon's investment in public services. It's also crucial to consider the industry landscape and employment opportunities. Both cities have thriving technology sectors, but Portland's lack of sales tax and its unique industrial mix, including significant manufacturing, contribute to its distinct economic environment. While affluence levels and poverty rates show some variation, homelessness represents a critical issue in both urban areas, underscoring the need for comprehensive social services and affordable housing solutions.
Oakland vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
When planning your move from Oakland, CA to Portland, OR, it's helpful to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you gauge the compatibility with your own viewpoints and lifestyle.
| Oakland | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Progressive | Liberal/Progressive |
| Local Politics | Strong emphasis on community activism and social justice | Highly engaged with environmental sustainability and social equity |
| Religion | Diverse; ranges from Christian, Muslim, Jewish, to non-affiliated | Notably secular, but with a variety of religious communities including Christian, Buddhist, Pagan, and others |
The cultural landscapes of Oakland and Portland share similarities in their liberal political leanings, providing an inviting atmosphere for those seeking communities that prioritize progressivism. Oakland is renowned for its vibrant community activism and strong emphasis on social justice initiatives, which resonates well with Portland's own commitment to environmental sustainability and social equity. On the religious spectrum, both cities showcase a rich tapestry of beliefs, from major world religions to non-affiliated spiritual practices. Despite Portland's notable secular leanings, you'll find a welcoming variance of religious and spiritual communities, aligning with Oakland's own diverse spiritual makeup. This comparison sheds light on the shared values and unique nuances that make both cities stand out as culturally rich, inclusive communities.
Oakland vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Oakland, CA to Portland, OR requires an understanding of the differences in daily commuting habits and traffic. This comparison will give you a better grasp of what the daily commute and traffic are like between Oakland & Portland.
| Comparison | Oakland | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 35 | 25 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible but challenging | Easier compared to Oakland |
In Oakland, you're likely to find yourself stuck in traffic for longer periods, with the city scoring a high 8 out of 10 in congestion. On the contrary, Portland presents a somewhat smoother experience with a congestion score of 6. Despite this, Portland triumphs over Oakland in terms of public transit availability, making it more feasible to navigate the city with options like TriMet without the constant need for a vehicle. This difference enhances the appeal of Portland for those seeking to leave their car behind and embrace public transportation or biking as part of their daily routine.
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