Best Oregon to California Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from state to state is not just a change of scenery; it's an exciting leap into a new chapter of your life. Transitioning from Oregon's lush landscapes and laid-back vibes to California's sunny shores and bustling cities means trading the Beaver State's tranquility for the Golden State's endless opportunities. Finding trusted and reliable professional movers for this journey is crucial, which is why we've used our unbiased ranking algorithm to connect you with the best movers, ensuring your adventure begins on the right note.
Best Oregon to California Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCD Moving Services LLC | 9.66 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Pure Moving | 9.64 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Pacific Northwest Moving | 9.47 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
| Elite Relocation Services | 9.32 | A+ | Authorized For 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 California to Oregon guide.
6 Best OR to CA Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About OCD Moving Services LLC
For over five years, OCD Moving Services LLC has been providing Oakland and the Bay Area with residential and commercial relocation services...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Commercial Moving
About Pure Moving
Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moving
- Commercial moving
- Long-distance moving
About Pacific Northwest Moving
Pacific Northwest Moving has been offering their reliable services as movers in Medford, OR for more than ten years. It is a locally owned a...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
This listing has been claimed by Elite Relocation ServicesAbout Elite Relocation Services
Elite Relocation Services has been awarded Business of the Year, Torch Awards for Ethics, and an A+ rating from the BBB. Shawn Jones, the ow...Read More >>
Services
- Local and Long Distance moving
- Residential moving
- Office & Industrial moving
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.
Pros and Cons of Moving from Oregon to California
Moving from one state to another is a significant decision, and it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before making the leap. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Oregon to California, helping you make an informed choice.
Oregon- Less sunshine
- Smaller job market
- Higher income taxes
- Less diverse cuisine
California- More sunshine
- Larger job market
- No state income tax
- More diverse cuisine
California- Less greenery
- Higher cost of living
- Fewer outdoor activities
- More traffic congestion
Oregon- Lush greenery
- Lower cost of living
- Rich outdoor activities
- Less traffic congestion
While making the move from Oregon to California, you'll find the transition brings both opportunities and challenges. For example, you might miss the lush greenery, lower cost of living, and traffic-free roads of cities like Portland, but the vibrant cultural scenes of San Francisco or Los Angeles offer unparalleled diversity in cuisine and entertainment. Imagine swapping your quiet hikes in the Doug Fir-filled trails of Oregon for sunrise yoga on Venice Beach or exploring the rich culinary scene from the comfort of rooftop restaurants like The Highlight Room in Hollywood. However, the transition might come with a price, literally, as the cost of living in most California cities is significantly higher, and you may find yourself exchanging a spacious home in Bend for a cozier apartment in San Diego.
Oregon vs. California Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Oregon & California, highlighting how food plays a crucial role in understanding the cultural and lifestyle nuances of an area. This comparison will ensure you are well-informed about the culinary landscape of your new home.
| Oregon | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Dungeness Crab | Fish Tacos |
| Most popular meat dish | Elk Steak | Tri-tip BBQ |
| Most popular street food item | Voodoo Doughnuts | Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Bowl | Avocado Toast |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the state |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In the world of West Coast cuisine, Oregon and California offer vibrant and diverse culinary scenes that cater to everyone from meat lovers to vegans. For example, Oregon's food scene prides itself on its innovative use of local ingredients, like the famed Dungeness Crab and Elk Steak, found in hip Portland neighborhoods such as the Pearl District. Meanwhile, California's culinary prowess shines through in its fusion dishes like Fish Tacos and the health-conscious favorite, Avocado Toast, best enjoyed in trendy spots around Los Angeles or the gastronomically revered Napa Valley. Whether you're dining at the waterfront eateries of San Francisco or exploring the food trucks of Portland, both states offer distinctive flavors that reflect their rich cultural tapestries.
Ready to start your move?
Oregon vs. California Real Estate & Living Facts
Understanding the nuances of real estate differences between Oregon and California is crucial for a seamless transition to your new home. This comparison aims to shed light on everything from housing costs to lifestyle ratings, helping you make an informed decision on where to plant your roots.
| Comparison | Oregon | California |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Spanish Revival |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Eco-friendly features | Proximity to the beach |
When comparing the housing landscapes of Oregon and California, a few notable differences stand out. Oregon’s real estate market highlights eco-friendly features and Craftsman-style homes, reflecting the state's dedication to sustainability and its rich history. In contrast, California leans more towards boasting about its Spanish Revival architecture along with the allure of seaside living. Not only does California offer a higher urban lifestyle rating, but its real estate listings also frequently emphasize proximity to the beach, showcasing the state’s renowned beach culture. Meanwhile, Oregon excels in bikeability, indicative of its strong cycling culture, especially in urban centers like Portland. These differences exemplify the distinct lifestyles and environments you'll find in each state, providing a glimpse into what your life could be like depending on where you choose to move.
Oregon vs. California Weather Considerations
When planning a move from Oregon to California, understanding how the weather varies between these two states can greatly influence your decision and preparation process. By comparing the weather differences between Oregon and California , you'll better anticipate the changes in climate and how they may affect your lifestyle, health, and activities.
Oregon
California
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Oregon
California
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Oregon
California
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Oregon
California
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Oregon | California |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good to Moderate | Varies Greatly |
| Natural Disasters | Rainstorms, Floods | Earthquakes, Wildfires |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
In transitioning from Oregon to California, you'll notice a significant increase in sunny days and a notable decrease in humidity and annual rainfall. California's warmer summer highs and milder winter lows may offer a more comfortable setting for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. However, it’s essential to consider the state’s elevated UV index and varied air quality, especially in densely populated or wildfire-prone areas. Considering natural disasters, while Oregon chiefly contends with rainstorms and occasional flooding, California’s earthquake and wildfire risks are key considerations for emergency planning and insurance.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Oregon to California
When planning a move from Oregon to California, it's crucial to grasp how your finances will be affected. This comparison aims to illuminate the differences in living costs and economic factors between Oregon and California , helping you make an informed decision about your relocation.
| Comparison | Oregon | California |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $75,657 | $91,551 |
| Cost of Living Index | 110.55 | 136.4 |
| State Income Tax | 4.75 - 9.9 | 1 - 13.3 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.90 | 0.73 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | N/A | 8.56 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Forestry, Tourism | Technology, Agriculture, Entertainment |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | High |
| Homelessness | Significant | Severe |
Moving from Oregon to California, you'll find that while average household incomes are higher in California, the cost of living and state income tax rates can also be substantially higher, potentially offsetting these income gains. Notably, California's varied economy, powering through technology, agriculture, and entertainment, offers diverse job opportunities. However, both states face challenges with homelessness and poverty, factors worth considering in your decision-making process. California's significantly severe homelessness rates and higher poverty levels as compared to Oregon's significant and moderate levels respectively, reflect larger socio-economic challenges despite its affluence.
Oregon vs. California Political & Religious Comparison
As you plan your move from Oregon to California, it's helpful to have a comparison of the politics between Oregon & California and understand the religious makeup of these states. This will give you a quick snapshot of the differences and similarities in the communities you're moving from and to.
| Oregon | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal-leaning, especially in urban areas such as Portland | Strongly liberal, particularly in coastal cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies in urban centers, with a more conservative stance in rural areas | Progressive stance on environmental, social, and economic issues across most urban and many suburban areas |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated overall; diverse spirituality | Higher levels of religious affiliation, particularly Catholicism among the Hispanic community |
When moving from Oregon to California, you'll find that both states share a liberal-leaning political makeup, particularly in their urban areas. However, California presents a more pronounced progressive stance on issues such as environmental protection and social rights, visible in policies and local legislation. Despite these similarities, the religious landscape offers a contrast. Oregon's residents tend to be less religiously affiliated, embracing a variety of spiritual paths, while California has a significant portion of its population identifying with Catholicism, reflecting its large Hispanic community. No matter your political or religious orientation, both states offer vibrant communities that cater to diverse perspectives.
Education Guide When Moving from Oregon to California
Moving from Oregon to California offers the opportunity to explore a wide range of educational settings. Whether you're interested in public or private schools for your children, or assessing where most seniors end up going to college, this guide will help you better understand the comparisons between school options in Oregon and California . Examine the differences and make an informed decision on your family's educational journey.
| Oregon | California |
|---|---|
Where most Seniors go to college (top 3) University of Oregon Oregon State University Portland State UniversityUniversity of California Berkeley; Stanford University; University of California Los Angeles | |
Top 3 Elementary Schools Ainsworth Elementary Portland; Findley Elementary Portland; Jacob Wismer Elementary PortlandPoint Vicente Elementary Rancho Palos Verdes; La Cañada Elementary La Cañada Flintridge; Westlake Elementary Santa Cruz | |
Top 3 Middle Schools Stoller Middle School Portland; Lake Oswego Junior High Lake Oswego; Cedar Park Middle School PortlandMiller Middle School San Jose; Rancho San Joaquin Middle Irvine; Canyon View Middle Irvine | |
Top 3 High Schools Lincoln High School Portland; Lake Oswego High School Lake Oswego; South Eugene High School EugeneHenry M. Gunn High School Palo Alto; Torrey Pines High School San Diego; Palo Alto High School Palo Alto | |
Top 3 private high schools Catlin Gabel School Portland; Oregon Episcopal School Portland; St. Mary's Academy PortlandHarvard-Westlake School Los Angeles; Philips Exeter Academy Exeter; The Harker School San Jose | |
Top 3 private K-12 schools Riverdale Grade School Portland; The Delphian School Sheridan; Valley Catholic School BeavertonThe Nueva School Hillsborough; Crossroads School for Arts & Sciences Santa Monica; The Webb Schools Claremont | |
Top 3 School Districts Lake Oswego School District; Riverdale School District; Beaverton School DistrictPalo Alto Unified School District; Irvine Unified School District; San Marino Unified School District | |
When comparing the educational landscapes of Oregon and California, a few highlights stand out. For instance, Oregon's top colleges—University of Oregon, Oregon State University, and Portland State University—are well-regarded for their diverse programs and research opportunities. On the other hand, California boasts prestigious institutions like UC Berkeley and Stanford University, known worldwide for innovation and academic excellence. In terms of K-12 education, both states offer top-notch options. Oregon's Beaverton School District is celebrated for its comprehensive programs and student support services, while California's Palo Alto Unified School District is notable for its strong STEM focus and high college matriculation rates. This comparison underscores the rich educational choices available to families moving between these two states.
Popular Oregon to California Moving Routes
- Portland to Los Angeles
- Portland to San Diego
- Portland to San Jose
- Portland to San Francisco
- Portland to Fresno
- Portland to Sacramento
- Portland to Long Beach
- Portland to Oakland
- Portland to Bakersfield
- Portland to Anaheim
- Portland to Santa Ana
- Portland to Riverside
- Portland to Stockton
- Portland to Irvine
- Portland to Chula Vista
- Portland to Fremont
- Portland to San Bernardino
- Portland to Modesto
- Portland to Fontana
- Portland to Moreno Valley
- Salem to Los Angeles
- Salem to San Diego
- Salem to San Jose
- Salem to San Francisco
- Salem to Fresno
- Salem to Sacramento
- Salem to Long Beach
- Salem to Oakland
- Salem to Bakersfield
- Salem to Anaheim
- Salem to Santa Ana
- Salem to Riverside
- Salem to Stockton
- Salem to Irvine
- Salem to Chula Vista
- Eugene to Los Angeles
- Eugene to San Diego
- Eugene to San Jose
- Eugene to San Francisco
- Eugene to Fresno
- Eugene to Sacramento
- Eugene to Long Beach
- Eugene to Oakland
- Eugene to Bakersfield
- Eugene to Anaheim
- Eugene to Santa Ana
- Eugene to Riverside
- Eugene to Stockton
- Eugene to Irvine
- Eugene to Chula Vista
