Best San Francisco to Portland Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the tech-centric, foggy hills of San Francisco to the verdant, laid-back streets of Portland promises an exciting transition, blending urban charm with a touch of nature's tranquility. You're trading the iconic Golden City, with its world-renowned Golden Gate, for the City of Roses, known for its vibrant arts scene and coffee culture. To ensure this chapter begins smoothly, it's crucial to rely on trusted, reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we help you find the best by using an unbiased algorithm, making sure your move is in the safest hands.
Best San Francisco to Portland Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Bay - L.A. Express Moving | 9.32 | D | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Careful Movers | 9.31 | 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 |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to San Francisco guide.
5 Best San Francisco 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 Bay - L.A. Express Moving
Bay-L.A. Express Moving is a professional moving company that serves Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the entire Bay Area. Specializing in mo...Read More >>
Services
- Long-distance moving
- Small relocation
- Full packing services
About Careful Movers
With almost two decades of expertise and experience in the moving industry, Menlo Park-based Careful Movers promises stress-free, on-time, a...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Office 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
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.
San Francisco vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Considering a move from San Francisco to Portland and wondering how your favorite neighborhood compares? This guide is designed to help you familiarize yourself with an unknown city by using your existing city as a baseline. We'll conduct a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Francisco, CA & Portland, OR to find the most similar areas in terms of vibe, community, and amenities.
| San Francisco | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Marina District | Pearl District | Trendy, upscale living |
| Hayes Valley | Northwest District | Artsy, with boutique shops |
| Castro District | Hawthorne | Vibrant LGBTQ+ scene |
| North Beach | Mississippi Ave | Historic, with a lively nightlife |
| Mission District | Alberta Arts District | Diverse, with a creative spirit |
| Nob Hill | Laurelhurst | Exclusive, with grand old homes |
| SoMa (South of Market) | South Waterfront | Modern, with waterfront views |
| Outer Sunset | St. Johns | Laid-back, with a strong community feel |
| Pacific Heights | Irvington | Affluent, with beautiful historic homes |
| The Haight | Belmont | Bohemian, with a youthful energy |
Discovering your neighborhood's counterpart in a new city can ease the transition significantly. For instance, if you've enjoyed the bustling, upscale vibe of the Marina District in San Francisco, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Portland's Pearl District, known for its high-end apartments and vibrant arts scene. Foodies who loved the diversity of Mission District's dining options will appreciate Alberta Arts District's eclectic food scene, including the renowned Salt & Straw ice cream shop. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts intrigued by North Beach's past will enjoy exploring Mississippi Ave, with its rich history and modern nightlife. This guide aims to smooth your move by connecting you with a piece of home in your new city.
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 San Francisco to Portland
Moving from one city to another offers a fresh start but comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide a balanced perspective on transitioning from San Francisco, CA to Portland, OR, showcasing the ups and downs of such a move. By understanding the pros and cons, you can better prepare for the change.
San Francisco, CA- High cost of living
- Dense population
- Competitive job market
- Foggy weather
Portland, OR- More affordable
- Less crowded
- Emerging job opportunities
- Milder climate
Portland, OR- Smaller tech industry
- Less variety in cuisine
- Fewer tourist attractions
- Less developed public transit
San Francisco, CA- Vibrant tech scene
- Diverse food culture
- Iconic landmarks
- Extensive public transport
The choice between San Francisco's bustling streets and Portland's easier pace is driven by what you value more: the constant buzz of urban life or the relaxation of a less crowded city. In San Francisco, the diverse food scene from the Ferry Building Marketplace to Mission Street Food is unmatched. However, Portland counters with its own culinary delights, including the famed Pine Street Market and unique coffee shops like Stumptown Coffee Roasters. While you might miss jogging through Golden Gate Park, Portland's Washington Park offers breathtaking natural beauty and a serene escape. The transition might require some adjustment, but both cities offer vibrant communities and unique opportunities to explore urban life amidst nature.
San Francisco vs. Portland Food Guide
When relocating, it's essential to embrace the new flavors and culinary experiences awaiting you. We'll delve into a comparison of the local cuisine between San Francisco & Portland to help you get a taste of your new home, highlighting the vibrant food scenes that contribute to each city's unique charm.
| San Francisco | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Sourdough Bread | Portland Doughnut |
| Most popular meat dish | Mission Burrito | Portland Style Brisket |
| Most popular street food item | Street Tacos | Food Cart Pods |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu Scramble | Tempeh Rueben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In San Francisco, the culinary landscape is as varied and vibrant as its culture. The iconic sourdough bread, a testament to the city's rich history, can be experienced in its full glory at Tartine Bakery, while Zuni Café offers a contemporary twist on Californian cuisine. Conversely, Portland revels in its food cart culture, with entire neighborhoods like the Alberta Arts District dedicated to street food from around the globe. Salt & Straw's adventurous ice cream flavors are a testament to Portland's innovative spirit. Whether dining in the heart of the Mission District in San Francisco or exploring the food cart pods in Portland, you'll find a diverse array of culinary delights that showcase the essence of each city.
San Francisco vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding your new favorite dining spots can make a new city feel like home. In this guide, we compare top restaurants in San Francisco with their Portland counterparts. Whether you fancy high-end dining or a casual bite, this comparison will help you discover your next go-to eatery. Let's dive into the culinary journey from San Francisco to Portland.
| San Francisco | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Gary Danko | Le Pigeon | Both offer an inventive, fine-dining experience with a focus on local ingredients. |
| Tartine Bakery | Ken's Artisan Bakery | Renowned for their bread, pastries, and a similar commitment to quality. |
| Swan Oyster Depot | Apex | Famous for fresh seafood and a casual, yet refined atmosphere. |
| Nopa | Tusk | Both excel in farm-to-table dining with a modern twist on classic dishes. |
| The Slanted Door | Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen | Offering a contemporary take on traditional Vietnamese cuisine. |
| Zuni Café | Clyde Common | Both iconic, with a focus on seasonal, Mediterranean-inspired dishes. |
| Mission Chinese Food | Pok Pok | For a bold, innovative approach to Asian cuisine, with a strong emphasis on flavor and authenticity. |
| Benu | Departure | Modern, upscale dining with a creative Asian fusion menu. |
| Pizzeria Delfina | Apizza Scholls | A haven for pizza lovers, known for their meticulous approach to Neapolitan-style pies. |
| La Taqueria | Mi Mero Mole | Known for their authentic Mexican dishes, echoing the vibrant flavors found at La Taqueria. |
While each restaurant brings its unique flair to the dining experience, the establishments listed share similar values in food quality and dining ambiance. For example, Gary Danko and Le Pigeon both create an atmosphere where fine dining meets creativity, serving dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. On the casual side, Tartine Bakery and Ken's Artisan Bakery both stand as pillars in their respective cities for anyone looking to indulge in the finest breads, pastries, and more. Moreover, those missing the vibrant, complex flavors of Mission Chinese Food will find solace in Pok Pok's equally daring and authentic take on Asian cuisine. It's clear that no matter where you're dining, San Francisco's culinary spirit can be found in Portland, ready to make you feel at home with each bite.
Ready to start your move?
San Francisco vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is one of the most important aspects when planning a move. Understanding how housing options in San Francisco compare to those in Portland can significantly influence your decision-making process. The following comparison sheds light on various housing aspects including costs, architecture, and lifestyle between these two vibrant cities.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Modern | Craftsman and Old Portland |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views, Proximity to Tech, Luxury | Green Spaces, Local Coffee Shops, Community Feel |
Comparing the housing market between San Francisco and Portland reveals striking contrasts, especially in affordability. San Francisco's housing market is notoriously expensive, making Portland's median home price and monthly rent seem considerably more attainable. The architecture in San Francisco often highlights Victorian and modern designs, contributing to its iconic skyline, whereas Portland takes pride in its Craftsman-style homes and charming Old Portland neighborhoods. Interestingly, Portland outshines in bikeability, offering extensive bike paths and a culture that encourages cycling. Both cities promise a rich urban lifestyle; however, the essence differs, with San Francisco leaning towards luxury and tech, while Portland emphasizes community feel and access to green spaces, as seen in its real estate listings.
San Francisco vs. Portland Weather Considerations
Understanding the climate changes you'll encounter is crucial when relocating. This comparison highlights weather differences between San Francisco and Portland , offering insights into what to expect in your new city. From average temperatures to annual precipitation , knowing these variations can help you prepare better for the move.
San Francisco, CA
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
San Francisco, CA
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
San Francisco, CA
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | San Francisco | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Fires | Earthquakes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
The comparison reveals Portland experiences warmer summers but cooler winters compared to San Francisco. Notably, the drastic difference in sunshine days - Portland has nearly half the sunny days of San Francisco. However, both cities share a high humidity level, though slightly higher in Portland, influencing the overall feel of the weather. Preparing for rain is crucial in Portland, with annual rainfall significantly exceeding that of San Francisco, which may affect outdoor activities and lifestyle choices. Despite these differences, both cities boast their unique charm, reflective in part of their distinct climates.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from San Francisco to Portland
When planning a move, it's crucial to consider financial implications. Understanding how the cost of living, taxes, and income in San Francisco and Portland will compare to what you're accustomed to, can significantly impact your decision and financial planning.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $121,826 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 164 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 13.3 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.6 | 0.9 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 8.5 | 0 (No sales tax in Oregon) |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Finance, Tourism | Technology, Manufacturing, Health Care |
| Affluence | Very High | Moderate to High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | High | High |
While San Francisco and Portland both offer dynamic economies, the cost of living and taxes present a stark contrast. San Francisco's higher average household income is tempered by its significantly higher cost of living and state income tax. The absence of sales tax in Oregon can offer some financial relief for Portland residents. Understanding these differences is crucial for budgeting and lifestyle planning. Additionally, despite the perceived affluence in San Francisco, both cities face high levels of homelessness, underscoring complex socioeconomic challenges.
San Francisco vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider moving from San Francisco, CA to Portland, OR, understanding the local demographics can provide valuable insights. We offer a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between San Francisco & Portland to give you a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of what to expect in your new city.
| San Francisco | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Strongly liberal | Very liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies on social issues | Progressive with a strong focus on environmental and social justice |
| Religion | Mix of religions, with notable non-religious population | Highly secular, with a mix of spiritual practices |
Both San Francisco and Portland are known for their liberal leanings, but you'll find Portland has a unique focus on environmental advocacy and social justice at a local level. While San Francisco’s political discourse is profoundly affected by its status as a tech hub, Portland's smaller scale fosters tight-knit communities passionate about grassroots activism. The religious landscape in both cities is diverse, yet they share a significant presence of residents who identify as non-religious, reflecting the broader trend of secularism in urban areas. This move is more than just a change of scene; it's stepping into a community where your values are likely reflected and echoed in local policies and social attitudes.
San Francisco vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from San Francisco, CA to Portland, OR? This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between San Francisco & Portland will help you better understand what to expect from your daily commute and traffic in your new city.
| Comparison | San Francisco | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | Yes, but less convenient |
San Francisco is well-known for its robust public transit system, with options ranging from buses and metros to ferries. This system, considered one of the best in the United States, means residents can easily get by without a car. In contrast, while Portland also offers a variety of public transit options like buses, light rail, and streetcars, the coverage and frequency might not match San Francisco's. Consequently, living in Portland without a car is possible but might require more planning, especially when traveling outside of the city center or during off-peak hours.
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