Best Boston to Salem Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the historical charm of Boston, MA, to the green serenity of Salem, OR, represents not just a change of scenery but an exhilarating leap into a new adventure. You're trading the bustling energy of "Beantown," renowned for its rich American history and spirited sports culture, for the tranquil beauty of "The Cherry City," a haven of lush landscapes and a vibrant community spirit. Recognizing the monumental shift this represents, it's crucial to ensure your transition is as smooth as possible by enlisting trusted and reliable professional movers, something we at Great Guys Moving excel in, using our unbiased algorithm to connect you with the very best.
Best Boston to Salem Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stairhopper Movers | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Centaur Moving | 9.60 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Intelligent labor & Moving | 9.51 | A+ | Authorized For Property, 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 Salem to Boston guide.
5 Best Boston to Salem Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Stairhopper Movers
Since 2001, Stairhopper Movers has operated as a Boston-based local moving company that performs local and long-distance residential and com...Read More >>
Services
- Local moves
- Long distance moves
- Commercial moves
This listing has been claimed by Centaur MovingAbout Centaur Moving
Centaur Moving, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a fully licensed and insured moving company with services for local and nationwide mov...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Relocations
About Intelligent labor & Moving
Established in 2005, Intelligent Labor & Moving is a moving and storage company serving residential and corporate clients in the communi...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance and interstate moving services
- Cheap moving rates with two or three movers
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.
Boston vs. Salem Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to familiarizing yourself with new neighborhoods. To make this transition smoother, we're offering a side-by-side comparison of the local neighborhoods between Boston, MA & Salem, OR . This guide aims to help you find a new area that feels like home by drawing parallels to familiar places from your previous city.
| Boston | Salem | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Back Bay | Fairmount Hill | Historic charm, aesthetic parallels |
| Beacon Hill | Bush's Pasture Park Area | Historical residences, community feel |
| North End | Englewood | Rich cultural history, food scene |
| South End | Candalaria | Diverse community, arts scene |
| Fenway | Morningside | Youthful energy, proximity to parks |
| Charlestown | West Salem | Family-friendly, historic points |
| Jamaica Plain | Sunnyslope | Green spaces, progressive community |
| Dorchester | South Salem | Diverse neighborhoods, cultural festivals |
| Seaport District | Riverfront Park Area | Thriving business scene, waterfront dining |
| South Boston | Salem Downtown | Strong sense of community, local businesses |
If you're captivated by the historic charm and aesthetic appeal of Back Bay, you'll find a similar vibe in Fairmount Hill, known for its well-preserved homes and scenic streets. Beacon Hill's quaint atmosphere, with its brick sidewalks and gas lamps, mirrors the historic residences and tight-knit community feel found in the Bush's Pasture Park area. For those who relish the vibrant food scene of the North End, Englewood offers a mosaic of cultural history and culinary delights, making it a perfect place to explore new flavors. Lastly, for those drawn to the arts and diverse communities of the South End, Candalaria provides a rich tapestry of cultural and social activities, surrounded by unique local restaurants and galleries, like Salem Art Association and Word of Mouth Bistro.
Things to Do in Salem
Stroll through the colorful Bush's Pasture Park- Discover gothic horrors at Witch's Castle
- Visit the Willamette National Forest
- Book a ticket to an event at El Sinai Center
- Explore craft brews at Gilgamesh Brewing
- Enjoy a show at Elsinore Theatre
- Join a Salem Saturday Market
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Boston to Salem
Moving from one city to another can be a significant life change, packed with both challenges and opportunities. In considering a relocation from Boston, MA to Salem, OR, our comparison aims to reflect honestly on the advantages and drawbacks of such a move. By examining the pros and cons, we hope to provide a comprehensive overview that will help in making an informed decision.
Boston, MA- Higher cost of living
- Harsh winters
- Dense urban living
Salem, OR- Lower cost of living
- Milder climate
- More open spaces
Salem, OR- Fewer historical landmarks
- Less public transit options
- Smaller city feel
Boston, MA- Rich historical sites
- Extensive public transit
- Vibrant city life
When moving from Boston to Salem, you'll find a stark contrast in lifestyle and environment. Salem's appeal includes a significant reduction in the cost of living, allowing for a potentially higher quality of life. Nature lovers will appreciate Salem’s abundance of open spaces and parks, such as the Riverfront Park, perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides. However, if you're someone who thrives on the hustle and bustle of city life, you might find Salem's more laid-back atmosphere a bit of a shift from Boston's vibrant, history-rich environment, where places like the Freedom Trail and Boston Common offer both cultural experiences and urban greenery. On the dining front, Salem's culinary scene, though growing, may feel more limited in comparison to Boston's diverse array of world-class restaurants and bars. Nonetheless, establishments such as Willow Creek Wood Fired Pizza in Salem, provide a taste of local flavors worth exploring.
Boston vs. Salem Food Guide
When relocating, it’s crucial to embrace the culinary delights that define local culture. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Boston & Salem to help you understand the food scene in your new home, ensuring a smoother transition.
| Boston | Salem | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Clam Chowder | Marionberry Pie |
| Most popular meat dish | Lobster Roll | Elk Burger |
| Most popular street food item | Boston Baked Beans | Food Truck Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Quinoa Salad | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In transitioning from Boston to Salem, you're moving from the seafood-rich menus featuring items like Clam Chowder and Lobster Rolls to a scene ripe with local produce and innovative dishes such as Marionberry Pie and Elk Burgers. Salem, with its increasing health consciousness, offers a vibrant array of vegan options like the Tempeh Reuben. The city boasts an up-and-coming food truck scene, particularly in neighborhoods like Downtown Salem, where you can indulge in a variety of street food ranging from tacos to gourmet sandwiches. Iconic restaurants like Word of Mouth and Andina Restaurant highlight Salem’s eclectic food scene, from home-style breakfasts to Peruvian cuisine, offering an insight into the city's diversified palate.
Boston vs. Salem Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often starts with discovering where to eat. This restaurant comparison is specifically designed to help you find your new favorite eateries in Salem, utilizing Boston as a culinary compass . As you transition from the historical charm of Boston, MA, to the verdant landscapes of Salem, OR, let's make sure you can still indulge in familiar tastes and culinary adventures.
| Boston | Salem | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Ostra | DaVinci Ristorante | Fine dining with a focus on seafood and an upscale atmosphere |
| Uni | Kyoto Japanese Restaurant | Known for inventive sushi rolls and a wide selection of sashimi |
| Neptune Oyster | Turner's Seafood | Offers fresh, local seafood in a cozy setting, reminiscent of Neptune Oyster’s charm |
| Toro | La Margarita Express | A lively spot with a focus on tapas and cocktails, capturing Toro’s spirit |
| Flour Bakery + Cafe | Word of Mouth Bistro | Cozy cafe renowned for its breakfast, pastries, and welcoming atmosphere |
| Mike's Pastry | Busick Court Restaurant | Known for delicious desserts and a local favorite for sweet treats |
| Fenway Park for a Red Sox game | Volcanoes Stadium for a Salem-Keizer Volcanoes game | Offers a similar communal experience of enjoying America’s favorite pastime |
| Legal Sea Foods | Rafns' Restaurant | Provides high-quality, sustainable seafood dishes with an emphasis on local sourcing |
| Picco | Gamberetti's Italian Restaurant | Casual yet authentic Italian dining experience, best known for pizza and pasta |
| Island Creek Oyster Bar | Archive Coffee & Bar | While primarily a coffee shop, it offers oyster nights that capture the vibe of Island Creek Oyster Bar |
Transitioning from Boston's bustling dining scene to Salem's growing culinary landscape doesn't mean leaving behind your favorite flavors. For example, fans of Ostra's refined seafood offerings will find a slice of gastronomic heaven at DaVinci Ristorante, where each dish is meticulously prepared to showcase the freshness of the Pacific Northwest's bounty. Similarly, the intimate yet vibrant atmosphere of La Margarita Express mirrors that of Boston's Toro, offering a curated selection of tapas that are perfect for sharing. Whether you're craving the sweetness of a cannoli from Mike's Pastry or the earthy, refined flavors of a dish from Neptune Oyster, Salem's eclectic dining establishments are ready to offer something remarkably familiar yet uniquely their own.
Ready to start your move?
Boston vs. Salem Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning your move, understanding the real estate dynamics between your current city and future home is crucial. This comparison will spotlight how Boston, MA and Salem, OR measure up in terms of housing costs, architectural styles, walkability, and lifestyle to aid in your relocation decision.
| Comparison | Boston | Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Colonial, Federal | Craftsman, Ranch |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to universities, historic sites | Family-friendly neighborhoods, green spaces |
While Boston offers a dense, urban experience with high walkability and proximity to historic and cultural landmarks, Salem presents a more laid-back lifestyle, emphasized by its lower cost of living. Salem's housing market is notably more accessible, with median home prices and rents substantially lower than in Boston. Architecture in Salem leans towards Craftsman and Ranch styles, providing a stark contrast to Boston's prevalent Colonial and Federal designs. Despite a slightly lower bikeability score, Salem's appeal lies in its family-friendly neighborhoods and ample green spaces, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between urban accessibility and a peaceful, residential setting.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salem, OR
1. West Salem: This area is highly pet-friendly due to its numerous walking trails such as Wallace Marine Park and pet services like Taylor Street OB/GYN Veterinary Clinic.
2. South Salem: Your pet will enjoy South Salem's selection of pet-friendly restaurants and services, including All-In-One Pet Grooming and Garry's Pub which has a pet-friendly patio.
3. Morningside: Known for its large number of dog-friendly parks such as Morningside City Park, this neighborhood also hosts a favorite pet supply store, Petco.
Boston vs. Salem Weather Considerations
Moving across the country from Boston, MA to Salem, OR, requires understanding how the weather differs and what adjustments you might need to make. This comparison will help you appreciate the climate changes and prepare for your new surroundings.
Boston, MA
Salem, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Salem, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Boston, MA
Salem, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Boston, MA
Salem, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Boston | Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Blizzards, Nor’easters | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Boston to Salem, you’ll find milder winters and fewer snow days, thanks to Salem's average winter temperatures being about 10 degrees higher and significantly less annual snowfall. However, Salem experiences fewer days of sunshine and higher humidity, which could impact your daily activities and the way you manage indoor air quality. Although both cities have their unique natural disaster risks—from blizzards and Nor’easters in Boston to earthquakes and wildfires in Salem—it's essential to consider these factors in your preparedness plans. Transitioning from the East to the West Coast, understanding these differences will help you acclimate more smoothly to your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Boston to Salem
When planning a move, understanding the financial contrasts between your current and future home is essential. This comparison aims to highlight the cost of living, taxation, and economic opportunities between Boston, MA, and Salem, OR . Such insights are instrumental in preparing for the economic landscape that awaits you.
| Comparison | Boston | Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,283 | $63,927 |
| Cost of Living Index | 132.5 | 110.55 |
| State Income Tax | 5 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.22 | 1.18 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6.25 | 0 (Oregon has no sales tax) |
| Top 3 Industries | Education, Healthcare, Finance | Government, Agriculture, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | More affluent | Less affluent |
| Poverty | Lower | Higher |
| Homelessness | Significant | Moderate |
In moving from Boston to Salem, you'll notice several financial adjustments. Salem's lower cost of living index, at 108.4, means your day-to-day expenses could be significantly less than in Boston, which is pegged at 162.4. However, Oregon's higher state income tax of up to 9.9% could offset some of these savings, especially when compared to Massachusetts' flat rate of 5%. Yet, Salem offers relief in other areas, notably with its absence of sales tax, contrasting with Boston's 6.25% sales tax. Another point to consider is the differing top industries in each locale—Boston's economy thrives on education, healthcare, and finance, while Salem's key sectors include government, agriculture, and manufacturing, which could influence job opportunities depending on your field.
Boston vs. Salem Political & Religious Comparison
Moving from one city to another isn't just a geographic change, it's also about adapting to a new community. This quick guide gives you a snapshot of the political and religious makeup comparison between Boston & Salem , providing insights into what to expect from your new neighbors.
| Boston | Salem | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Heavily Democratic | Leans Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive on social issues | Mix of progressive and moderate views |
| Religion | Diverse; strong Catholic presence | Diverse; increasing unaffiliated demographic |
When relocating from Boston to Salem, you'll find both cities share a Democratic leaning, though Salem presents a more moderate stance on certain issues. Boston's political scene is notably progressive, especially concerning social matters, reflecting its larger population's liberal views. Salem, while still leaning Democratic, showcases a blend of progressive and moderate views, hinting at a more mixed political landscape. Religion in both cities is diverse; Boston has a significant Catholic community, a reflection of its historic Irish and Italian populations. In contrast, Salem has seen growth in its unaffiliated religious demographic, indicating a shift towards secularism or alternative spiritual beliefs among its residents. This mirrors a broader national trend towards religious disaffiliation, particularly among younger generations.
Boston vs. Salem Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Boston, MA, to Salem, OR, involves adapting to new daily commutes and understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two cities. Knowing what to expect can ease the transition and help plan your day more efficiently. This comparison aims to shed light on each city's unique transit landscape.
| Comparison | Boston | Salem |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 30.4 | 24.4 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Yes | No |
In Boston, navigating the city without a car is feasible thanks to a robust public transit system ranked highly for its coverage and reliability. With an average commute time slightly longer than Salem's, the higher traffic congestion in Boston reflects its denser urban environment. On the other hand, Salem, OR, showcases shorter commute times and significantly less traffic congestion, making it a smoother experience for those driving. However, Salem's public transit options are less extensive, making owning a car more of a necessity for daily commutes and exploring the area. This comparison highlights the importance of assessing your transportation needs and lifestyle preferences when moving between these distinct cities.
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