Best San Jose to Portland Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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San Jose to Portland Movers

Moving from the tech-infused, sun-kissed streets of San Jose, CA, to the eclectic, green embrace of Portland, OR, symbolizes not just a change of address but an exciting chapter in your life. You're leaving behind the Silicon Valley hustle for Portland's famed bridges, brews, and books. In this significant voyage, it's paramount to entrust your belongings to reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we understand the essence of your journey, offering meticulously selected movers, ensuring your transition is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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Best San Jose to Portland Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
D&L Movers9.35A+ActiveContact
Careful Movers9.31A+Authorized For HHGContact
Northwest Grace Moving9.30A+Authorized For HHGContact
All Service Moving9.27A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC9.24A+ActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to San Jose guide.

5 Best San Jose to Portland Moving Companies

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

D&L Movers Logo
Exceptional9.35/10
based on 1,789+ data points

About D&L Movers

Founded by Drew Sanchez and Leo Cervantes, D&L Movers is a local moving company that offers full-service relocations for homes and busin...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving
  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 7/23/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2706648 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved20,000 (2017)
View Full Review
1
Careful Movers Logo
Exceptional9.31/10
based on 4,655+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/5/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1464935 / 553377

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans14
Registered Drivers14
Total Annual Miles Moved90,000 (2022)
View Full Review
2
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional9.30/10
based on 605+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
3
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 9,065+ data points

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 using a ...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC Logo
Exceptional9.24/10
based on 1,842+ data points

About Joshua's Moving Packing & Storage LLC

Whether you're moving to the next street or city, Joshua's Moving, Packing & Storage offers worry-free relocation services within Califo...Read More >>

Services

  • Local moving
  • Long-distance moving
  • Cross-country moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/5/2023)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3184868 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans5
Registered Drivers5
Total Annual Miles Moved250,000 (2022)
View Full Review
5
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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 Jose vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison

Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not sure where to start looking for a new home. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between San Jose, CA & Portland, OR . This guide is designed to help you find a neighborhood in Portland that reminds you of home, using San Jose's popular neighborhoods as a baseline.

San JosePortlandHow They're Similar
Willow GlenSellwood-MorelandFamily-friendly, community-oriented
Downtown San JosePearl DistrictUrban living, vibrant arts scene
Almaden ValleyBethanyQuiet, suburban feel
Silver CreekWest HillsUpscale, private homes
Rose GardenIrvingtonHistoric homes, charming streets
JapantownOld Town ChinatownCultural hubs, rich history
Santana RowNW 23rd AveTrendy shopping, dining
EvergreenHillsdaleFamily-oriented, green spaces
Los GatosLaurelhurstElegant, tranquil atmosphere
BerryessaSt. JohnsDiverse, strong sense of community

If you're fond of the historic charm and lush scenery of Rose Garden in San Jose, you'll be enamored by Portland's Irvington neighborhood, renowned for its beautifully preserved historic homes and shaded streets. Similarly, those drawn to the vibrant, diverse cultural experiences of Japantown will find a resounding echo in Portland's Old Town Chinatown, where every corner offers a slice of rich history blended with modern vibrancy. For shopping enthusiasts accustomed to the trendy boutiques of Santana Row, NW 23rd Avenue in Portland offers a comparable experience with its array of unique shops and upscale dining options, enveloped in a distinctively laid-back Northwest vibe. And for those who cherish the community-oriented, family-friendly atmosphere of Willow Glen, Sellwood-Moreland in Portland mirrors this quality, boasting an enviable sense of neighborhood camaraderie amidst scenic parks and engaging local events.

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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 San Jose to Portland

Deciding to move from San Jose, CA to Portland, OR involves considering a mix of benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to give you an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, helping to inform your decision with a balanced perspective.

CONs
PROs
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • High Living Cost
  • Intense Tech Competition
  • Heavy Traffic
  • Less Greenery
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • More Affordable
  • Laid-Back Job Market
  • Smaller Traffic Issues
  • Lush Landscapes
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Less Tech Opportunities
  • More Rainfall
  • Smaller Economy
  • Quainter Downtown
San Jose, CA iconSan Jose, CA
  • Technological Hub
  • Sunny Weather
  • Strong Economy
  • Vibrant Downtown

Moving from San Jose to Portland offers a significant change in both lifestyle and environment. While San Jose boasts of its status as a technological hub with names like Apple and Google calling it home, Portland, despite having a smaller tech scene, is celebrated for its thriving creative community, exemplified by areas like the Pearl District. The shift from the sunny, bustling streets of San Jose to Portland's rain-kissed, lush landscapes provides a stark contrast, offering outdoor enthusiasts a paradise in spots like Washington Park. Living costs drop noticeably, providing relief without sacrificing the quality of life, thanks to a plethora of dining options like those found on Portland's food scene, which continually draws nationwide attention.

San Jose vs. Portland Food Guide

Food is an integral part of understanding a city's culture and the quality of life you can expect. In this guide, we're highlighting the differences and similarities to anticipate in your culinary journey. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between San Jose and Portland, to better prepare you for the move and introduce you to the food scenes awaiting you.

San JosePortland
Most iconic local food itemPhoDonuts
Most popular meat dishCarne AsadaBrisket
Most popular street food itemTacosFood Carts' Fusion Cuisine
Most popular vegan foodBanh Mi ChayTempeh
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Original Joe's
  • Manresa
  • Falafel's Drive-In
  • Pok Pok
  • Le Pigeon
  • Salt & Straw
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

When moving from San Jose to Portland, you'll transition from the rich, multicultural flavors of Silicon Valley to the eclectic, farm-to-table ethos of the Pacific Northwest. In Portland, venues like Pok Pok showcase the city's affinity for bold, authentic flavors, especially noted in areas like the Alberta Arts District. Here, food carts serve as hubs of innovation, offering everything from gourmet fusion dishes to hearty vegan options. Portland's commitment to health and sustainability is reflected in its abundant vegan-friendly restaurants and the widespread availability of locally-sourced ingredients. This city takes its coffee and craft beer just as seriously, with local roasters and brewers enhancing the vibrant food scene.

San Jose vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, discovering local eateries where you feel at home is crucial. This restaurant comparison aims to ease your transition by guiding you from your familiar favorites in San Jose to new culinary delights in Portland. Whether your preference leans towards high-end dining, casual bites, or iconic staples, these recommendations will help ensure you won't miss a beat—or a meal—in your new city.

San JosePortlandWhat You'll Love
AdegaCoquineMichelin-quality, farm-to-table dining.
La Foret RestaurantCastagnaA modern culinary experience with unique flavors.
Original Joe's San JosePiazza ItaliaClassic Italian in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
Smoking Pig BBQPodnah’s Pit BarbecueSlow-cooked meats with a commitment to traditional methods.
Falafel Drive-InNicholas RestaurantAuthentic Middle Eastern cuisine with a similar casual vibe.
Back A YardKee’s #Loaded KitchenCreative, generous plates in a laid-back atmosphere.
Dia de PescaChef Naoko Bento CaféSustainable, seafood-focused dishes with a Japanese twist.
ManresaLe PigeonAdventurous, French-inspired tasting menus.
San Pedro Square MarketPine Street MarketA variety of artisanal food vendors under one roof.
Henry's World Famous Hi-LifeRussell Street BBQA homely, old-school take on American BBQ favorites.

Discovering your new go-to dining spots in Portland can be an exhilarating adventure, especially when restaurants like Coquine and Castagna offer high-end, farm-to-table dining experiences that are reminiscent of Adega and La Foret Restaurant in San Jose. The transition from the casual, iconic Falafel Drive-In won't feel as far when you step into Nicholas Restaurant, where the authenticity of Middle Eastern cuisine and a laid-back atmosphere await. For those missing the slow-cooked meats of Smoking Pig BBQ, Podnah’s Pit Barbecue in Portland stands ready with its dedication to traditional barbecue methods. Lastly, the community ambiance of San Pedro Square Market is mirrored by Pine Street Market, presenting a collection of artisanal food vendors that offer something unique and delicious for every palate.

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Ready to start your move?

San Jose vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts

When planning your move, it's crucial to understand how San Jose, CA and Portland, OR match up in the real estate domain. This comparison sheds light on housing costs, architectural styles, and lifestyle facets, key for making an informed decision.

ComparisonSan JosePortland
Typical Architecture StyleModern and SpanishCraftsman and Bungalow
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSmart Home Features, Solar PanelsEco-friendly Materials, Proximity to Nature

Moving from San Jose to Portland, you'll discover significant differences in housing costs and lifestyle. In Portland, the median home price and rent are considerably lower than in San Jose, making it an appealing city for many looking for a more affordable cost of living without sacrificing an urban lifestyle. Architecturally, San Jose tends to favor modern and Spanish styles, while Portland is renowned for its Craftsman bungalows, aligning with its reputation for eco-friendliness and proximity to nature. This architectural difference is not just aesthetic but reflects the environmental values of each city. Moreover, Portland's higher walkability and bikeability scores exemplify its resident-friendly infrastructure, offering you an engaging and active urban experience with a closer tie to the natural surroundings.

San Jose vs. Portland Weather Considerations

Moving between cities means adapting to new weather patterns. This comparison highlights the key weather differences between San Jose, CA, and Portland, OR , essential for your transition. Understanding these variances can significantly impact how you prepare for your relocation.

Summer icon
82°F / 57°F

San Jose, CA

80°F / 58°F

Portland, OR

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
60°F / 42°F

San Jose, CA

47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
15.5

San Jose, CA

36

Portland, OR

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
0

San Jose, CA

4

Portland, OR

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSan JosePortland
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakesFloods, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

When moving from San Jose to Portland, you'll notice significant changes in weather, especially in terms of sunshine and rainfall. San Jose enjoys more than 250 sunny days annually, nearly double that of Portland. However, Portland's cooler, more humid climate might be a welcome change for those who prefer cloudier skies and lush, green landscapes. Annual rainfall is much higher in Portland, supporting its vibrant ecosystem, but it also means you'll need to adapt your wardrobe and outdoor activities to accommodate more rainy days.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from San Jose, CA to Portland, OR, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living and overall financial landscape will change. This comparison aims to highlight those differences and help you make an informed decision.

ComparisonSan JosePortland
Avg. Household Income$126,377$79,057
Cost of Living Index156.1111.3
State Income Tax13.39.9
Avg. Property Tax0.790.91
Avg. Sales Tax9.250
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Manufacturing, RetailTechnology, Healthcare, Manufacturing
AffluenceHighModerate
PovertyLowerModerate
HomelessnessModerateHigh

Understanding the financial dynamics between San Jose and Portland can greatly impact your decision-making process. While San Jose boasts a higher average household income, the cost of living there is significantly greater than in Portland. Additionally, despite Oregon's lack of sales tax, it compensates with relatively high state income and property taxes. The technology sector strongly influences both cities, though their affluence level and social issues such as poverty and homelessness vary, underscoring the importance of nuanced financial planning before making a move.

San Jose vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison

In preparation for your move from San Jose, CA to Portland, OR, it's beneficial to get a quick snapshot of the political and religious landscape you're heading into. This comparison provides a glance at the politics between San Jose & Portland and how religion plays into the community dynamics, helping you understand the social fabric of your new home.

San JosePortland
Political Make-upPrimarily DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerate, with a focus on tech and business developmentHighly progressive, with a strong focus on environmental and social justice issues
ReligionDiverse, with Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist communities More InfoLess religiously affiliated, with significant "nones" (those identifying with no religion), but active Christian and Buddhist communities More Info

When moving from San Jose to Portland, you'll find yourself transitioning from a city with a diverse and moderate political landscape to one that's known for its progressive values and activism. While both cities lean Democratic, Portland is well-known for its advocacy in environmental and social justice issues, reflecting a community deeply engaged in local and national politics.
Religious diversity is present in both cities, but you'll notice a larger portion of Portland's population identifies with no religion, highlighting its secular nature. However, the presence of active religious communities in both cities offers a rich cultural tapeed.

San Jose vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Preparing for your move from San Jose, CA to Portland, OR? A key aspect of your transition involves understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between San Jose & Portland. This comparison will give you a better idea of what to expect for your daily commute and traffic encounters.

ComparisonSan JosePortland
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)3025
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingManageable

Moving from San Jose to Portland means adapting to a new rhythm of life, especially when it comes to your daily commute. In Portland, you'll find the city more navigable without a car compared to San Jose, thanks to its higher score in public transit availability and slightly less traffic congestion. While San Jose's transit system, VTA, provides considerable coverage, Portland's TriMet offers more frequent services and wider coverage, making it easier for residents to get around the city efficiently. This difference means that in Portland, you're more likely to enjoy quicker commutes and a more reliable public transportation system, making your transition smoother and potentially reducing your reliance on a vehicle.

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