Best Washington to Portland Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the historic charm of DC, the nation’s capital, to the lush, green landscapes of Portland, Oregon, is not just a change of address but an exciting journey into a new way of life. While you're trading the political heartbeat and monuments of "The Federal City" for the eco-friendly vibe and coffee culture of "The City of Roses," it’s crucial to ensure the adventure is as smooth as possible. That’s why choosing trusted and reliable professional movers for this long haul becomes indispensable, and we’re here to guide you through with the best options.
Best Washington to Portland Moving Companies
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Washington guide.
5 Best Washington to Portland Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Bookstore Movers
Locally owned and operated, Bookstore Movers was founded in 2005 with a dedication to customer service, personalization, and small business ...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
About Mic's Moving
Mic's Moving is a locally owned and operated moving company that focuses on providing a personalized moving experience to residential and co...Read More >>
Services
- Local Move
- Long Distance Moving
- Labor Only: Loading, Unloading and In-house moves
About Ap Pro Moving Llc
Ap Pro Moving LLC is a reliable and professional moving company based in Arlington, VA. They offer various services such as local moving, lo...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Packing Services
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 3338902 / - Active Carrier |
| Registered Trucks/Vans | 1 |
| Registered Drivers | 2 |
| Total Annual Miles Moved | 4,000 (2021) |
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.
Washington vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To ease this transition, we've created a side-by-side comparison to help someone moving from Washington DC, DC & Portland, OR acquaint themselves with their new surroundings. By comparing popular neighborhoods in Washington DC with their closest equivalents in Portland, we aim to make you feel right at home in no time.
| Washington | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Dupont Circle | Pearl District | Vibrant arts scene and nightlife |
| Georgetown | Nob Hill | Historic charm with upscale shopping |
| Capitol Hill | Sellwood-Moreland | Rich in history and family-friendly |
| Adams Morgan | Alberta Arts District | Diverse with a vibrant nightlife |
| Shaw | Mississippi Avenue | Hip with a strong sense of community |
| Logan Circle | Hawthorne Boulevard | Eclectic and bohemian vibes |
| Foggy Bottom | Goose Hollow | Tranquil and residential with historic sites |
| Columbia Heights | Northwest District | Culturally diverse with rich amenities |
| Navy Yard | Pearl District | Modern with a waterfront setting |
| Woodley Park | Laurelhurst | Scenic with beautiful parks |
If you love the historic charm and upscale shopping of Georgetown, you’ll enjoy exploring Nob Hill in Portland, where boutiques and fine dining establishments line the streets. Similarly, the Pearl District in Portland mirrors the vibrant arts scene and nightlife of Dupont Circle, offering galleries, theaters, and bars. For those drawn to the eclectic and bohemian vibes of Logan Circle, Hawthorne Boulevard is your go-to in Portland, with its unique assortment of shops, eateries, and vintage stores. Whichever neighborhood was your favorite back in Washington DC, you're sure to find a Portland counterpart that makes you feel right at 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 Washington to Portland
Moving across the country is a significant decision, and it's essential to weigh both the positives and negatives of such a change. This comparison aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Washington DC, DC to Portland, OR . Understanding these contrasts will help you make a well-informed decision about your upcoming move.
Washington, DC- High living costs
- Intense political environment
- Traffic congestion
- Hot, humid summers
Portland, OR- More affordable housing
- Laid-back lifestyle
- Easier commutes
- Milder climate
Portland, OR- Smaller city vibe
- Less global influence
- Public transport options differ
- Fewer historical landmarks
Washington, DC- Vibrant cultural scene
- Political center
- Extensive public transit
- Rich history
Moving from Washington DC to Portland holds the promise of a lifestyle that merges the best of urban amenities with the charm and comfort of a smaller, close-knit community. For example, while you might miss the Smithsonian museums or the National Mall's historical landmarks, Portland offers its unique attractions like the lush escapes of Forest Park and the iconic Powell's City of Books, the largest independent bookstore in the world. Foodies moving from DC's diverse culinary scene will delight in Portland's vibrant food truck culture and innovative restaurants, such as Le Pigeon. Known for its environmental consciousness, Portland also offers numerous bike paths and public parks like Washington Park, appealing to those seeking a greener, more sustainable lifestyle.
Washington vs. Portland Food Guide
Understanding the local food culture is essential when relocating. Here, we're diving into a delicious exploration by comparing the local cuisine between Washington DC & Portland . This comparison will help you get a taste of what culinary delights await in your new home.
| Washington | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Half-Smoke | Dungeness Crab |
| Most popular meat dish | Mumbo Sauce Chicken Wings | Portland Pork Belly |
| Most popular street food item | Jumbo Slice Pizza | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Chickpea Curry | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, you'll quickly notice the city's strong embrace of farm-to-table dining and an innovative approach to vegan and vegetarian cuisine. Iconic dishes such as the Dungeness Crab can be savored along the waterfront or in the cozy eateries of neighborhoods like the Pearl District and Alberta Arts District. The city is also renowned for its vibrant food truck culture, offering everything from Tempeh Reuben sandwiches to a diverse array of international cuisines. Establishments like Pok Pok and Nong's Khao Man Gai exemplify Portland's eclectic food scene, highlighting local ingredients and bold flavors that define the city's culinary landscape.
Washington vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Finding your culinary comfort in a new city is crucial to feeling at home. This restaurant comparison chart will guide you from Washington DC to Portland , helping you discover eateries that resonate with your palate. Whether you're craving an exquisite dining experience or a cozy, casual meal, navigating your way through Portland's vibrant food scene just got easier.
| Washington | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Diplomate | Le Pigeon | French-inspired cuisine with a uniquely Portland twist |
| Rose's Luxury | Clyde Common | Eclectic, elevated dining experiences |
| Zaytinya | Tusk | Middle Eastern flavors with farm-to-table freshness |
| Old Ebbitt Grill | Huber’s Café | Historic setting offering traditional American fare |
| Bene Pizza | Ken’s Artisan Pizza | Renowned for handcrafted pizzas and a cozy atmosphere |
| Komi | Castagna | Modern dining with an emphasis on innovation and quality ingredients |
| Bad Saint | Langbaan | Intimate setting with a focus on Southeast Asian cuisine |
| Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab | RingSide Steakhouse | Iconic, upscale steak and seafood offerings |
| Fiola Mare | Ox | Elegant waterfront dining with a focus on seafood and steaks |
| Daikaya | Marukin Ramen | Authentic, handcrafted ramen with an Oregon touch |
Moving from the historic streets of Washington DC to the lush landscapes of Portland doesn't mean you have to leave your dining preferences behind. For example, Le Diplomate's Parisian flair can be revisited at Le Pigeon, where chef Gabriel Rucker infuses local Oregon Ingredients with French techniques, offering a menu that reflects both innovation and tradition. Meanwhile, the transition from Joe's Seafood in DC to RingSide Steakhouse in Portland means you won't be missing out on high-quality, sumptuous steak and seafood. Both establishments pride themselves on their meticulous sourcing and preparation, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Portland promises a seamless culinary transition, with its diverse and rich food scene mirroring the eclectic tastes found back in Washington DC.
Ready to start your move?
Washington vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate significantly shapes the experience of relocating, making it critical to understand how the living environments contrast in Washington DC and Portland . This comparison will help you grasp the housing differences, focusing on costs, architecture, walkability, and lifestyle, providing a foundation for your moving decision.
| Comparison | Washington | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Victorian and Beaux-Arts | Craftsman and Old Portland |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to Metro, Historic details | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to nature |
When comparing the two cities, it's noteworthy that Portland's median home price and rent are considerably lower than in Washington DC, making it a financially appealing option for many. Architecture aficionados moving from Washington DC might miss the grand Victorian and Beaux-Arts homes but will find Portland's Craftsman and Old Portland styles to be uniquely charming. Furthermore, Portland ranks higher in walkability and bikeability, reflecting its compact urban layout and extensive cycling infrastructure. This transition might require some adjustment but promises a lifestyle closer to nature and a strong community vibe, exemplified by the popularity of eco-friendly features in Portland's real estate listings.
Washington vs. Portland Weather Considerations
If you're considering a move from Washington DC, DC to Portland, OR, it's crucial to understand how the weather patterns differ to prepare for your new climate. This comparison will help you set your expectations and make your transition as smooth as possible.
Washington, DC
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Washington, DC
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Washington, DC
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Washington, DC
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Washington | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Hurricanes, Floods | Earthquakes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Washington DC to Portland, you'll find that Portland enjoys milder summers but fewer sunny days annually, a fact important for those sensitive to dreary weather. However, winters in Portland tend to be more temperate, with less snowfall, potentially impacting your outdoor activity choices. Despite similar average humidity levels, Portland's superior air quality might be a significant relief for those with respiratory issues. The change in UV index and predominant allergens could also influence your daily life, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors or suffer from allergies.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Washington to Portland
When planning a move from one city to another, evaluating the financial landscape is critical. An understanding of how the cost of living, income, taxes, and the job market in Washington DC and Portland will impact your budget is essential. This comparison provides insights into what you can expect when relocating.
| Comparison | Washington | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $90,088 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 140.1 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 8.95% | 9.9% |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.56% | 1.07% |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6% | 0% (Oregon has no sales tax) |
| Top 3 Industries | Government, Professional Services, Education | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | Very affluent | Moderately affluent |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Higher than national average |
| Homelessness | Significant | Very significant |
Despite the allure of Oregon's no sales tax, when relocating from Washington DC to Portland, you might face a different financial reality. The average household income in Portland is lower, and although the cost of living is also lower compared to DC, Oregon's state income tax is slightly higher. The health of each city's job market reflects their leading industries; moving from a government and professional services-dominated environment to a tech and manufacturing hub could be a significant shift. Additionally, both cities grapple with their own social issues, notably homelessness, which is an important consideration for potential residents.
Washington vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another brings its unique set of changes, especially when it comes to the local culture and community. In this quick comparison, we aim to provide a glance at the political and religious makeup of the residents between Washington DC & Portland, giving you an idea of what to expect in your new surroundings.
| Washington | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Strongly Democratic |
| Local Politics | Focus on federal policies, international relations | Emphasis on environmental initiatives, social justice |
| Religion | Diverse, with notable Catholic and Protestant communities | Less religious overall, but with significant Buddhist and non-affiliated groups |
In adapting to your new home in Portland, you'll likely notice the palpable shift in local priorities compared to Washington, D.C. While both cities boast a Democratic majority, Portland places a strong emphasis on sustainability and grassroots involvement in social causes. Religious practices and affiliations may also feel different, with Portland being known for its more secular or non-affiliated spiritual communities. Understanding these subtleties will help you connect and become part of the vibrant tapestry that defines your new locale.
Washington vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when considering your daily commute. This guide aims to compare the traffic and transportation options between Washington DC & Portland, offering insights into what your commute might look like after the move.
| Comparison | Washington | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 34.5 | 26.1 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes | Mostly |
While Washington DC boasts an extensive public transit system, making it quite feasible to live without a car, Portland offers a slightly more relaxed atmosphere with less traffic congestion but still maintains a robust public transit system. Although Portland's TriMet offers extensive bus, light rail, and streetcar options, daily life without a car in the outskirts could be more challenging than downtown. Meanwhile, DC's Metro and bus systems allow for easy navigation throughout the DC metropolitan area without a car, highlighting the convenient accessibility and connectivity of the city's neighborhoods.
