Best Grand Rapids to Portland Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the bustling Beer City to the verdant City of Roses is an exhilarating journey that promises a fresh perspective on life's canvas. You're leaving behind Grand Rapids' legendary craft breweries and embracing Portland's famed eco-friendly vibe and cutting-edge cuisine. Recognizing the importance of such a significant transition, we know you need trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your belongings navigate the country safely, underscoring our commitment to connecting you with the best movers for this life-changing move.
Best Grand Rapids to Portland Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest Grace Moving | 9.29 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| All Service Moving | 9.27 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| MASS Movers | 9.02 | NR | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Kingsley Moving Systems | 8.97 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Powell Relocation Group | 8.88 | A+ | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Grand Rapids guide.
5 Best Grand Rapids to Portland Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
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
About MASS Movers
MASS Movers is a leading moving company in Lansing, MI. Established in 2016, this family-owned and operated business specializes in creating...Read More >>
Services
- Packing Service
- Large Item Moving
- Small to Medium Business Moving
About Kingsley Moving Systems
Kingsley Moving Systems is an experienced moving company located in Lansing, Michigan with over 20 years in the moving industry. Its profess...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Statewide Moving
- Interstate Moving
About Powell Relocation Group
Powell Relocation Group, founded in 1962, is a globally recognized and multi-award-winning moving company that believes quality does not nee...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Services
- Corporate Relocation
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.
Grand Rapids vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving between cities can feel like stepping into another world, but finding similarities in your new surroundings can ease the transition. This guide aims to help you familiarize yourself with Portland, OR by comparing it to Grand Rapids, MI neighborhoods. We'll provide a comparison of popular neighborhoods in Grand Rapids with their closest counterparts in Portland, helping you feel right at home from day one.
| Grand Rapids | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| East Grand Rapids | Lake Oswego | Upscale, family-friendly environment |
| Heritage Hill | Nob Hill | Historic homes, vibrant urban life |
| Midtown | Hawthorne | Eclectic shops, strong community feel |
| Beltline | Alberta Arts District | Creative vibe, diverse dining options |
| Heartside | Pearl District | Artistic flair, trendy restaurants |
| Eastown | Mississippi Avenue | Bohemian atmosphere, unique boutiques |
| Roosevelt Park | Sellwood-Moreland | Family-oriented, with antique shops |
| Ottawa Hills | Westmoreland | Quiet, with beautiful parks and homes |
| West Grand | St. Johns | Strong sense of community, rich history |
| Fulton Heights | Woodstock | Cozy neighborhood feel, local markets |
Moving from Grand Rapids' bustling Midtown district, known for its local eateries and vibrant community events, to Portland's Hawthorne neighborhood will feel like a seamless transition. With Hawthorne's eclectic array of shops, such as the famous Powell's Books, and the strong community vibe mirrored in local bars and coffee shops, you'll find the uniqueness and diversity you're used to. Similarly, if you're drawn to the artistic and trendy restaurants of Grand Rapids' Heartside, you'll appreciate the Pearl District's chic galleries, upscale dining like at Andina Restaurant, and the innovative spirit in local businesses. Portland's neighborhoods offer a comfortable familiarity paired with new sights and experiences, ensuring a smooth transition for those relocating from Grand Rapids.
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 Grand Rapids to Portland
Moving from one city to another involves weighing the good against the bad. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the Grand Rapids, MI to Portland, OR transition, helping you navigate the changes with clearer expectations. Use these comparisons to better understand how your life might shift with this move.
Grand Rapids, MI- Lesser food variety
- Harsh winters
- Smaller arts scene
- Fewer public parks
Portland, OR- Rich culinary scene
- Milder climate
- Thriving arts community
- Abundant green spaces
Portland, OR- Higher cost of living
- Less family-oriented
- Spread-out areas
- Higher traffic congestion
Grand Rapids, MI- Affordable housing
- Family-friendly
- Compact city
- Lower traffic levels
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI, to Portland, OR, presents a unique set of changes. You'll trade harsh winters for Portland's milder, although sometimes rainy, climate. This climate nurtures Portland's abundant green spaces, like the Washington Park and Forest Park, offering vast areas for outdoor activities. On the culinary front, Portland's rich food scene, featuring popular spots like Le Pigeon and food truck gatherings at Pioneer Courthouse Square, showcases a diverse palette that eclipses the variety found in Grand Rapids. However, be prepared for a higher cost of living and more traffic, especially in bustling areas like Downtown and the Pearl District. Despite these cons, the cultural and lifestyle enrichment in Portland might just be worth the trade.
Grand Rapids vs. Portland Food Guide
Understanding the essence of local cuisine is vital in appreciating the culture and lifestyle of a new city. This guide offers a comparison of the local cuisine between Grand Rapids & Portland , helping you get a taste of what to expect in your new home.
| Grand Rapids | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Michigan Pasty | Pacific Northwest Salmon |
| Most popular meat dish | Beer Braised Brisket | Portland-Style Pork Belly |
| Most popular street food item | Tacos | Food Cart Pod Burritos |
| Most popular vegan food | Farro Salad | Tempeh Reuben |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Grand Rapids boasts a unique comfort food scene, with establishments like San Chez Bistro offering a blend of European and American cuisine. Meanwhile, Portland excels in providing a diverse culinary experience, highlighted by its vibrant food cart pods scattered throughout neighborhoods such as Hawthorne and Alberta. Venues like Le Pigeon demonstrate Portland's farm-to-table ethos, emphasizing local, sustainable ingredients. This comparison shows not just a difference in tastes, but also in the way these cities embrace and innovate within their respective food cultures.
Grand Rapids vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
When relocating, finding new favorite eateries can turn a new city into home. To assist those moving from Grand Rapids to Portland, this restaurant comparison aims to match you with your next beloved dining spots, using what you already love as a guide.
| Grand Rapids | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Grove | Le Pigeon | Both offer innovative, locally-sourced fine dining experiences. |
| Marrow | Tusk | Both are known for unique, creative dishes emphasizing local, fresh ingredients. |
| San Chez Bistro | Portland Mercado | A community of diverse and authentic food vendors, mirroring San Chez's tapas and international fare. |
| The Sovengard | Scandinavian Heritage Foundation's Nordia House | Offers Scandinavian-inspired flavors with a commitment to sustainability. |
| Terra GR | Harlow | While Terra focuses more on Italian, both establishments prioritize organic and health-conscious meals. |
| Two Beards Deli | Lardo | Both are celebrated for their inventive sandwiches and casual, welcoming atmosphere. |
| Amore Trattoria Italiana | Nostrana | Authentic Italian cuisine with a focus on traditional techniques and ingredients. |
| Cherry Deli | Kenny & Zuke's Delicatessen | Both are beloved for their extensive, comforting deli menus. |
| Wolfgang's Restaurant | Screen Door | For those seeking the comfort of an iconic breakfast, both serve up hearty, beloved brunch menus. |
| Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar | Jake's Famous Crawfish | Seafood lovers will find a similar focus on quality and freshness, with a nod to local traditions. |
For instance, if you're enamored with the creative and local fare at Marrow in Grand Rapids, Tusk in Portland will captivate you similarly with its attention to fresh, vibrant ingredients and a menu that changes seasonally. Similarly, if the unique Scandinavian flavors of The Sovengard are what you crave, Nordia House in Portland awaits with open arms, offering a taste of the nordic region's culinary delights, also deeply ingrained with a philosophy of sustainability. Another highlight, Jake's Famous Crawfish in Portland, garners acclaim for its seafood, reminiscent of Leo's Seafood Restaurant & Bar's fresh, quality offerings back in Grand Rapids. Each Portland eatery not only mirrors the essence of its Grand Rapids counterpart but also enhances the dining experience with its own local charm and flair.
Ready to start your move?
Grand Rapids vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal consideration when relocating. Understanding how the housing market and lifestyle in Grand Rapids and Portland compare is crucial to making an informed decision for your move. These cities offer distinct living experiences, influenced by their real estate trends.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Mid-century, Colonial | Modern, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Garages, Spacious Lots | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to public transit |
Grand Rapids offers a more affordable housing market compared to Portland, with both median home prices and rent lower than those in the latter. The architectural styles in Grand Rapids lean towards traditional, with many mid-century and colonial homes. In contrast, Portland’s housing landscape is dotted with modern and Craftsman-style homes, signifying a blend of historical significance and contemporary aesthetics. The lifestyle in Portland is undeniably more urban, reflected in its higher walkability and bikeability scores. Additionally, real estate listings in Portland frequently highlight eco-friendly features and the proximity to public transit, indicating a city that prioritizes sustainability and accessibility.
Grand Rapids vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When planning your move from Grand Rapids, MI to Portland, OR, grasping the climate differences can be crucial. This comparison aims to give you a clear understanding of what to expect weather-wise. The charts highlight the weather variations between Grand Rapids and Portland, so you can better prepare for your new surroundings.
Grand Rapids, MI
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Grand Rapids, MI
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Grand Rapids, MI
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good |
| Natural Disasters | Winter storms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Moving from Grand Rapids to Portland, you'll notice a milder winter, with Portland's lowest temperatures around 35°F, significantly higher compared to Grand Rapids. However, Portland has fewer days of sunshine annually, which might affect your outdoor activities. On the upside, the milder winters in Portland result in significantly less snowfall than Grand Rapids, reducing the need for frequent shoveling and simplifying winter commuting. Also, bear in mind that while both cities battle with tree pollen allergies, Portland's higher humidity and rainfall could lead to a different experience with allergies and general air moisture.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Grand Rapids to Portland
When contemplating a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Portland, OR, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison sheds light on the differences in living costs, taxes, and economic conditions you'll encounter, allowing for a smoother transition.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $59,596 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 90.7 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 4.25 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.54 | 1.07 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 6 | 0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Manufacturing, Health Services, Education | Technology, Manufacturing, Health Services |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Low | High |
Moving from Grand Rapids to Portland will expose you to an environment with significantly higher costs of living, mainly due to differences in housing and everyday expenses. While the average household income is higher in Portland, the state income and property taxes are notably different, which could impact your net income. Portland has a sales tax of 0%, which is uncommon and can offset some of the higher living costs. The dynamic industrial landscape in both cities supports diverse job markets, but Portland's prominence in the technology sector might offer unique opportunities for career growth. Despite its affluence, Portland faces challenges with homelessness, a critical aspect to consider when moving.
Grand Rapids vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
When considering a move from Grand Rapids, MI to Portland, OR, it's helpful to understand the differences in the local communities. This comparison between Grand Rapids & Portland provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents, offering insight into the cultural landscape you're moving into.
| Grand Rapids | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | More conservative leaning, but with a growing progressive community | Strong progressive leanings, known for its liberal policies |
| Local Politics | Focused on economic development, education, and healthcare | Emphasis on environmental protection, social justice, and urban development |
| Religion | Significant Christian community, LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church being notable | More secular, but diverse religious communities including Congregation Neveh Shalom |
While both Grand Rapids and Portland boast vibrant communities, their cultural, political, and religious climates show notable differences. Grand Rapids has a balanced mix of conservative and progressive residents with a strong Christian presence, illustrated by landmarks such as LaGrave Avenue Christian Reformed Church. Meanwhile, Portland is widely recognized for its progressive stance on various issues, including environmental protection and social justice, and though it's more secular overall, it also hosts a range of religious groups such as the Congregation Neveh Shalom. Understanding these nuances can help you better acclimate to your new home.
Grand Rapids vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Grand Rapids, MI to Portland, OR? It's essential to understand the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison between Grand Rapids & Portland will help you grasp what to expect on the roads and the availability of transit options.
| Comparison | Grand Rapids | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | No | Yes |
Moving to Portland from Grand Rapids, you'll notice a slight increase in your daily commute time due to higher levels of traffic congestion. Portland's public transit system is more developed, with a score of 8 out of 10, making it easier to get around without a car, unlike in Grand Rapids. The city's investment in cycling infrastructure and public transportation, such as the MAX Light Rail and Portland Streetcar, offers residents various sustainable commuting options. While Grand Rapids is making strides to improve its public transit, a car is still necessary for most residents to navigate the city efficiently.
Popular Grand Rapids, MI to Oregon Moving Routes
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