Moving from Worcester to Portland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Worcester to Portland Movers

Moving from the historic charm of Worcester, MA to the vibrant culture of Portland, OR is an adventure filled with new opportunities and experiences. Leaving behind the Heart of the Commonwealth for the City of Roses means transitioning from storied colonial streets to a haven of arts, eco-friendliness, and innovative cuisine. Understanding the magnitude of this cross-country move, it's vital to ensure you're entrusting your journey to professional movers we’ve ranked with our unbiased algorithm at Great Guys Moving, guaranteeing a seamless and reliable transition.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Worcester guide.

5 Best Worcester to Portland Movers

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

#1
Paradise Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 1,118+ data points

Framingham, MA
Affordable insured local and long distance movers, Hourly Charges only with no hidden fees, Furniture wrapping See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3619865 Verify

About Paradise Moving & Storage

Paradise Moving & Storage is a fully licensed and insured moving company based in Massachusetts, with locations in Framingham, Boston, a...Read More >>

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#2
Stairhopper Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 9,261+ data points

Boston, MA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Commercial moves See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1696867 Verify

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 >>

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top 3 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in boston 2023 stairhopper movers image
#3
Varsity Movers LLC Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 794+ data points

Hopkinton, MA
Local Moving, Apartment/Townhome/Condo Moving, Small Job Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3751873 Verify

About Varsity Movers LLC

Varsity Movers LLC is a moving company based in Hopkinton, Massachusetts, offering services in the New England area. Established by a mother...Read More >>

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#4
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 605+ data points

Oregon City, OR
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Senior Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT: 1999959 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in salem 2023 northwest grace moving image
top 10 ranked movers in salem 2022 northwest grace moving image
#5
You Move Me Portland Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,680+ data points

Portland, OR
Local moving services, Long-distance moving services, Packing services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 2388358 Verify

About You Move Me Portland

You Move Me Portland is the mover your neighbors trust and recommend. In terms of reliability, customer service, and professionalism, this l...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in portland 2023 you move me portland image
top 10 ranked movers in portland 2022 you move me portland image

Relocating from Worcester to Portland Neighborhood Guide

When relocating, understanding the nuances of your new city's neighborhoods can be daunting. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Worcester, MA & Portland, OR . This guide is designed to help you find a new home that feels familiar by comparing popular neighborhoods from Worcester with their Portland counterparts.

WorcesterPortland
Shrewsbury StreetPearl District

thriving food scene

Salisbury StreetLaurelhurst

historic homes, tranquil

West SideNorthwest District

leafy, residential

BurncoatMount Tabor

family-friendly, parks

TatnuckSellwood-Moreland

neighborly feel, antiques

Green HillAlameda

scenic views, heritage homes

Indian Lake EastLake Oswego

waterfront living, upscale

Union HillRose City Park

diverse, welcoming community

Lincoln StreetAlberta Street

artsy, vibrant nightlife

Quinsigamond VillageSt. Johns

industrial history, transformation

If you're drawn to Worcester's Shrewsbury Street for its bustling eateries and vibrant atmosphere, you'll find yourself right at home in Portland's Pearl District, renowned for its innovative restaurants and chic galleries. For those who appreciate the leafy, historic charm of Salisbury Street, Laurelhurst in Portland offers a similarly tranquil yet upscale living experience, complete with stunning heritage homes. Moving involves not just finding a house, but finding a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. Enjoy family picnics at Mount Tabor or embrace the neighborly spirit of Sellwood-Moreland, where weekends can be spent perusing antique shops or enjoying the local café scene. Each Portland neighborhood, like its Worcester counterpart, boasts unique attractions, from the scenic views of Alameda to the artsy vibrance of Alberta Street, ensuring you find a new home that resonates with your personal taste and lifestyle.

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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 Worcester to Portland

Moving from one city to another offers both challenges and rewards. In this comparison, we aim to provide an honest reflection of moving from Worcester, MA to Portland, OR , to help you weigh the pros and cons. This side-by-side evaluation will assist you in making an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Worcester, MA iconWorcester, MA
  • Harsher winters
  • Smaller city vibe
  • Less cultural diversity
  • Limited public transit
  • Fewer job opportunities
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Milder climate
  • Vibrant urban scene
  • Rich cultural diversity
  • Expansive public transit
  • Robust job market
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Less personal
  • Higher living costs
  • More urban
  • Less historic architecture
  • Higher crime rate
Worcester, MA iconWorcester, MA
  • Close-knit community
  • Affordable living costs
  • Accessible outdoor activities
  • Historic charm
  • Lower crime rate

The journey from Worcester's tight-knit community and its historic charm to Portland's vibrant urban scene signifies a transition towards a rich cultural tapestry and a milder climate. While you might miss the affordability and the quiet charm of smaller city life in Worcester, Portland offers expansive opportunities—ranging from food cart paradises scattered across the city to sprawling Washington Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In Portland, embrace the chance to explore neighborhoods like Pearl District known for its art galleries and chic eateries. With its bustling job market, Portland might offer the professional opportunities you've been seeking. However, prepare for the adjustment to a higher cost of living, by strategizing your budget accordingly. This move is not just a change in geography but a step into a lifestyle filled with new possibilities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Worcester to Portland

Food plays an essential role in understanding a region's culture and lifestyle, providing a taste of what life could be like in a new city. To help you get familiar with your future surroundings, we offer a comprehensive comparison of the local cuisine between Worcester, MA, and Portland, OR . This overview will give you insights into what your taste buds can expect after your move.

WorcesterPortland

Most iconic local food item

Worcester Diner SandwichPortland Doughnut

Most popular meat dish

Steak TipsSmoked Brisket

Most popular street food item

ShawarmaFood Cart Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Quinoa SaladTempeh Bowl

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • The Sole Proprietor
  • Armsby Abbey
  • O'Connor's Restaurant
  • Pok Pok
  • Salt & Straw
  • Le Pigeon

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

69

Abundance of Food Trucks

410

Foodie Scene

710

Vegan Friendly

510

In moving to Portland, you'll discover a vibrant food scene celebrated for its innovation and sustainability. Portland's renowned food cart pods, such as those in the Hawthorne district, offer everything from gourmet tacos to Ethiopian cuisine, reflecting the city's diverse culinary landscape. In contrast, Worcester boasts a more traditional fare, with its famous diners and hearty meals like the Worcester Diner Sandwich making it a unique culinary experience. Vegan and health-conscious eaters will find Portland exceptionally accommodating, with numerous restaurants like Tempeh Bowl catering to a plant-based diet. Whether you crave the comfort of a classic diner or the excitement of a bustling food cart scene, these cities offer distinct culinary adventures.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Worcester to Portland

When settling into a new city, finding your go-to spots for delicious meals is a crucial part of making it feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you bridge the gap between Worcester, MA and Portland, OR, allowing you to discover your new favorite eateries based on your current preferences. This comparison aims to ease the transition from Worcester to Portland by closely matching top dining experiences.

Deadhorse HillLe Pigeon

Intimate, inventive French cuisine

Armsby AbbeyDeschutes Brewery Portland Public House

Renowned for craft beer and hearty meals

Shrewsbury Street's Italian EateriesAva Gene's

Exceptional Italian dining with a focus on seasonal ingredients

The Sole ProprietorJake's Famous Crawfish

Historical seafood spot with a wide variety of dishes

Mezcal Tequila CantinaXico

Upmarket Mexican cuisine with a focus on sustainability

O'Connor's Restaurant & BarMcMenamins Kennedy School

Unique pub fare in a converted school

Via Italian TableNostrana

Elegant Italian fare with a cozy, rustic vibe

Bocado Tapas Wine BarBar Casa Vale

Spanish tapas and an extensive wine list in a relaxed setting

111 Chop HouseRingside Steakhouse

Classic upscale steakhouse with a timeless ambiance

Pomir GrillKachka

A modern take on Russian cuisine, innovatively prepared

As you transition from Worcester to Portland, know that your culinary journey won’t have to start from scratch. Take Armsby Abbey and Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House, for instance. Both are beloved for their extensive selection of craft beers and robust, comforting dishes, making them perfect for casual dining or a night out with friends. Then, there's the transition from Bocado Tapas Wine Bar to Bar Casa Vale. If you relished the evenings spent exploring Spanish wines and small plates in Worcester, you'll find a similar cozy atmosphere and exploration of flavors await you in Portland. Lastly, Pomir Grill and Kachka offer a look into how both cities bring international cuisine to the forefront, with each restaurant serving traditional dishes with modern flair. Armsby Abbey, Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House, and Kachka exemplify the culinary bridges between Worcester and Portland, ensuring you won’t have to go long without finding a new favorite.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Worcester to Portland

When planning a move, it's essential to consider the real estate landscape of your new city. This comparison between Worcester, MA, and Portland, OR sheds light on housing costs, styles, and livability to help you make an informed decision. Let's dive into how these key factors stack up in both cities.

In both Worcester and Portland, housing choices reflect the unique characteristics of each city. Worcester's Victorian and Colonial homes often feature the timeless elegance of hardwood floors and the allure of historic charm, appealing to those who appreciate architectural legacy mixed with modern living. On the other hand, Portland's real estate listings highlight Craftsman and Modern homes, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendly materials and closeness to nature, catering to a more environmentally conscious resident. The lifestyle in Portland is generally more urban, with a higher score in walkability and bikeability, underscoring the city's commitment to sustainable and active living. Those looking to relocate should consider these differences, especially if lifestyle and community environment rank high on their list of priorities.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, OR

1.  Pearl District : Known for its modern, upscale vibe, the Pearl District is pet-friendly thanks to its numerous pet stores, dog-friendly restaurants, and the Fields Park, a popular spot for dog owners.

2.  Northwest District : This neighborhood offers easy access to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the US, with numerous trails for you and your pet to explore, plus a variety of pet-friendly cafes and bars.

3.  Sellwood-Moreland : With a more laid-back, residential feel, Sellwood-Moreland is great for pets due to its welcoming community, several parks, and the Sellwood Riverfront Park which provides a great space for dogs to play and swim.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Worcester to Portland

When relocating from one city to another, understanding the climate differences is crucial. This guide highlights the weather variations from Worcester, MA to Portland, OR to assist you in preparing for the changing seasons and temperature shifts in your new home.

Summer icon
79°F / 60°F

Worcester, MA

81°F / 57°F

Portland, OR

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
35°F / 18°F

Worcester, MA

47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
48

Worcester, MA

36

Portland, OR

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
68

Worcester, MA

4

Portland, OR

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

The transition from Worcester to Portland means adapting to a milder winter but a wetter overall climate. While both cities prepare for their share of rain, Portland experiences significantly less snowfall, meaning you might have to adjust your winter activities. The higher humidity in Portland might also be a surprise, especially coupled with fewer sunny days annually. Familiarizing yourself with these differences ensures a smoother adjustment to your new environment.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial climate in Worcester, MA compare to those in Portland, OR. This comparison will help you anticipate changes in your expenses and guide your financial planning.

While Portland, OR has a higher average household income compared to Worcester, MA, it also comes with a higher cost of living index, largely due to housing and daily living expenses. State income tax in Oregon is significantly higher than in Massachusetts, which could affect your take-home pay. However, Portland does not levy any sales tax, providing some relief in day-to-day expenditures. The thriving technology sector in Portland could offer new employment opportunities, though it's important to weigh these benefits against the increased cost of living and higher rates of homelessness and poverty.

Political & Religious Comparison between Worcester, MA and Portland, OR

Moving from one part of the country to another can introduce you to a whole new community and way of life. This comparison of the politics between Worcester & Portland aims to provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, helping you understand the cultural landscape you’re stepping into.

WorcesterPortland

Political Make-up

Lean DemocraticStrongly Democratic

Local Politics

Moderate with some conservative areasProgressive and liberal policies

Religion

Christianity dominant, with a mix of other faithsDiverse, less religious overall

The political and religious climate of a city can significantly impact your daily life, shaping community values and social interactions. Worcester tends to lean Democratic, but with a balance that includes moderate and occasionally conservative viewpoints, reflecting a diverse political landscape. On the other hand, Portland is known for its strongly Democratic and progressive leanings, promoting liberal policies and environmental initiatives. Religion in Worcester is predominantly Christian, with a variety of other faiths represented, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Portland, meanwhile, is celebrated for its diversity and lower overall religiosity, fostering a secular community with a broad spectrum of beliefs and values. Understanding these dynamics will prepare you for a smoother transition as you move from Worcester to Portland.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Worcester to Portland

Understanding the differences in daily commute and traffic is crucial for anyone moving from Worcester, MA to Portland, OR. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Worcester & Portland aims to provide a clearer picture of what to expect in both cities.

WorcesterPortland
24.325.2

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

46

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

67

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with planningYes, easier than in Worcester

Can you get by without car?

Both Worcester and Portland offer unique challenges and benefits when it comes to commuting. In Worcester, you might find the average commute time slightly less, but Portland boasts a more efficient public transit system, including the extensive TriMet service composed of light rail lines and buses, making it easier to navigate without a car. While traffic congestion is rated higher in Portland, the city compensates with better bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets. Deciding between the two, your lifestyle and commuting preferences will heavily influence your experience. If you enjoy walking or biking, Portland's infrastructure supports this more. However, Worcester offers its own set of advantages for those who prefer driving but are okay with occasional planning for public transit use.

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