Moving from Portland to Oakland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Portland to Oakland Movers

Moving from the City of Roses to the Bright Side of the Bay is more than a change of scenery; it's an adventure waiting to unfold. Leaving behind Portland's lush landscapes and embracing Oakland's vibrant streets and diverse culture marks an exciting new chapter in your life. Recognizing the distance and the life shift you're about to make, it's critical to rely on professional movers you can trust. That's where we come in, offering carefully vetted, top-ranked movers to ensure your journey is smooth and your belongings arrive safely.

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

5 Best Portland to Oakland Movers

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

#1
OCD Moving Services LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,273+ data points

El Sobrante, CA
Local Moving, Long Distance Moving, Commercial Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 2597230 Verify

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 >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san francisco 2023 ocd moving services llc image
top 10 ranked movers in oakland 2022 ocd moving services llc image
#2
Kora Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,517+ data points

San Bruno, CA
Local moves, Long distance moves, Packing and unpacking See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3139436 Verify

About Kora Moving

Kora Moving, based in San Francisco, was established in 2018 by Carlos Viera, who has over 17 years of experience in the moving industry. Th...Read More >>

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top 10 ranked movers in san bruno 2023 kora moving image
#3
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
#4
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
#5
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 9,065+ data points

Portland, OR
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Long Distance Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1863079 Verify

About 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 >>

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top ranked movers in portland 2023 all service moving image

Relocating from Portland to Oakland Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can feel like navigating uncharted territory. To help bridge the gap, we've crafted a comparison of local neighborhoods between Portland, OR, & Oakland, CA for those considering the leap from Portland to Oakland. This guide is designed to match you with neighborhoods in Oakland that reflect the vibe and community you've come to cherish in Portland.

PortlandOakland
Pearl DistrictRockridge

Vibrant shopping and dining

Alberta Arts DistrictTemescal

Artsy and eclectic community

Nob HillPiedmont Avenue

Historic charm, upscale boutiques

Ladd's AdditionGrand Lake

Lush landscapes, historic homes

Mississippi AveOld Oakland

Hip, with a vintage vibe

HawthorneLakeshore

Alternative, vibrant nightlife

LaurelhurstMontclair Village

Family-friendly, wooded areas

EastmorelandClaremont Hills

Serene, picturesque views

RichmondDimond District

Diverse culture, community-focused

Forest ParkRedwood Heights

Nature-filled, residential

For those who enjoy the vibrant shopping and dining scene of Portland's Pearl District, Rockridge in Oakland promises an equally captivating atmosphere with its array of sophisticated eateries and boutiques. Fans of the artsy and eclectic community of Alberta Arts District will find a similar vibe in Temescal, known for its innovative art scenes and food venues. If the historic charm and upscale shopping of Nob Hill have won your heart, you'll be delighted by Piedmont Avenue's offer of historic allure combined with modern sophistication. Grand Lake parallels Ladd's Addition with its beautiful landscapes and historic homes but adds to it with a dynamic selection of markets and cinemas, such as the Grand Lake Theater. Lastly, for those captivated by the lush, outdoor expanses of Forest Park, Redwood Heights offers an oasis of greenery within the city, providing a tranquil retreat from urban bustle while maintaining a strong sense of community.

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Things to Do in Oakland

  • Explore Chabot Space & Science Center
  • Stroll through Oakland Zoo
  • Enjoy Lake Merritt on paddleboat
  • Watch a game at Oakland Coliseum
  • Visit Oakland Museum of California
  • Sample at Jack London Square eateries
  • Hike in Redwood Regional Park

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Oakland

Moving from one city to another comes with its highs and lows. This guide aims to provide a balanced view of relocating from Portland, OR to Oakland, CA , highlighting both the positive and negative aspects of making such a move. Whether you're drawn by better job prospects or the appeal of a new environment, understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Higher rainfall
  • Less diversity
  • Lower job growth
  • Smaller tech scene
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Sunnier days
  • Greater diversity
  • Higher job growth
  • Larger tech scene
Oakland, CA iconOakland, CA
  • Fewer parks
  • Warmer summers
  • More expensive dining
  • Higher cost of living
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • More green spaces
  • Milder summers
  • Eclectic food scene
  • Rich art community

While Oakland may boast sunnier days and a thriving tech industry, promising higher job growth, it's essential to consider the lifestyle changes this move entails. Oakland's diversity enriches the cultural tapestry of the city, evident in its vibrant communities like Temescal and Rockridge. Here, you can explore eclectic restaurants like Doña or catch a breathtaking sunset at Lake Merritt. Despite a higher cost of living in Oakland, including more expensive dining options, the city compensates with its unique culinary and arts scene – places like the Oakland Museum of California showcase this beautifully. Portland’s lush parks might be more abundant, but Oakland's urban green spaces, like Joaquin Miller Park, offer their own charm and a multitude of outdoor activities.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Portland to Oakland

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Oakland to help you understand the food scene in your new city. Food is a vital part of local culture and can greatly affect your living experience. This comparison aims to give you a better insight into what to expect when you move.

PortlandOakland

Most iconic local food item

DonutsSourdough Bread

Most popular meat dish

Pork BellyBBQ Brisket

Most popular street food item

Food CartsTacos

Most popular vegan food

Tempeh ReubenJackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Pok Pok
    2. Salt & Straw
    3. Ken's Artisan Pizza
    1. Commis
    2. ShakeWell
    3. Homeroom

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

98

Abundance of Food Trucks

87

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

109

In Portland, neighborhoods like the Pearl District and North Mississippi Avenue boast an array of food carts and vegan delicacies, showcasing the city's commitment to diverse and health-conscious eating. Among the streets, you might stumble upon Pok Pok, known for its authentic Thai dishes, or Salt & Straw where innovative ice cream flavors become the talk of the town. Moving to Oakland, you'll find the food landscape equally vibrant. Lake Merritt and Temescal are hotspots for foodies, with places like ShakeWell blending Mediterranean and Californian cuisines, while Homeroom specializes in gourmet mac and cheese, a comfort food taken to new heights. Both cities are paradises for food lovers, each with its unique flavor profile and culinary experiences to offer.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Portland to Oakland

When relocating, finding your new culinary havens is essential for feeling at home. This restaurant comparison is designed to bridge the gap between Portland and Oakland , helping you discover your next go-to spots by drawing parallels with your favorite Portland eateries.

Le PigeonCommis

High-end dining with a focus on innovative cuisine

Screen DoorBrown Sugar Kitchen

Famous for soulful brunch and southern comfort food

Apizza SchollsPizzaiolo

Neapolitan pizzas with a commitment to local, organic ingredients

Nong's Khao Man GaiHawking Bird

Known for their spin on chicken and rice, using fresh and local flavors

Pok PokChai Thai Noodles

Authentic Thai food with a focus on street-style dishes

Luc Lac Vietnamese KitchenPhnom Penh House

Traditional Cambodian & Vietnamese dishes that embody the heart of Southeast Asian cuisine

Tasty n AlderWood Tavern

American brasserie offering a cozy, upscale dining experience

AndinaCeviche Del Mar

Offers a fusion of flavors, showcasing the best of Peruvian cuisine

Blue Star DonutsDonut Savant

Small-batch, craft donuts with inventive flavors

Salt & StrawFentons Creamery

A classic ice cream parlor with unique flavors and a rich history

For those missing the vibrant, eclectic flavors of Portland's Pok Pok, Oakland's Chai Thai Noodles offers a tempting array of authentic Thai street food that will whisk your taste buds away to the bustling night markets of Bangkok. Fans of the iconic Salt & Straw will find solace in Fentons Creamery, an Oakland institution which, like its Portland counterpart, crafts unique, mouth-watering flavors that boast of local ingredients and creativity. Meanwhile, the transition from Le Pigeon's avant-garde dishes to Commis in Oakland promises an equally innovative dining experience, where each dish tells a story of culinary craftsmanship and the Bay Area's bountiful produce.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Portland to Oakland

When planning your move, understanding the real estate dynamics between Portland, OR, and Oakland, CA is crucial. This comparison will illuminate the differences in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle, allowing you to make an informed decision on your new home.

Moving from Portland to Oakland introduces you to a significantly different housing market. In Oakland, you'll notice the prominence of Victorian architecture, which adds a charming aesthetic to the urban environment. This city's walkability and bikeability scores are higher, indicating a more compact urban layout conducive to exploring and commuting without a car. The emphasis on views and proximity to public transit in Oakland real estate listings reflects the urban lifestyle you can expect, contrasting with Portland's focus on eco-friendly features and spacious yards.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Oakland, CA

1. Rockridge: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Rockridge offers numerous pet-friendly cafes and a local pet shop, ensuring your furry friends are always pampered.

2. Lake Merritt: This area surrounds a picturesque lake with a 3.4-mile walking path that's perfect for dog-walking, alongside veterinary services easily accessible for your pets' health needs.

3. Montclair Village: Nestled in the hills, Montclair Village is not only scenic but also boasts a pet-friendly environment with holistic pet care, and numerous trails for adventurous walks with your pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Portland to Oakland

Understanding the weather differences between Portland, OR, and Oakland, CA, is crucial when planning a move. This comparison highlights key weather patterns in both cities to help you anticipate the shift and prepare accordingly. Factors such as average temperatures, sunshine days, and air quality are essential components of this overview, emphasizing the importance of adapting your lifestyle and wardrobe to your new home.

Summer icon
81°F/58°F

Portland, OR

75°F/57°F

Oakland, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F/36°F

Portland, OR

58°F/44°F

Oakland, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.5

Portland, OR

23.5

Oakland, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.3

Portland, OR

0

Oakland, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Portland to Oakland, expect a notable increase in sunny days and a milder winter climate. Oakland's Mediterranean climate offers warmer, dryer summers and mild, wet winters contrary to Portland's cooler, rainier weather throughout the year. This shift means fewer raincoats and more sunscreen for your new home in Oakland. Moreover, with Oakland's good air quality, those sensitive to allergens may breathe easier, sans the concerns of Portland's higher pollen counts. However, it's important to be prepared for the possibility of earthquakes in Oakland, a risk less prevalent in Portland.

Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move from Portland, OR to Oakland, CA, understanding the financial implications is crucial. This comparison will offer key insights into the cost of living, taxes, and income potential between Portland and Oakland, helping you make an informed decision about this significant life change.

Moving from Portland to Oakland, you'll notice several differences in terms of finances. Despite a higher average household income in Portland, the cost of living in Oakland is more expensive, as indicated by its higher cost of living index. This may be due in part to Oakland’s proximity to San Francisco, one of the most expensive cities in the U.S. The state income tax in California is also higher than in Oregon, which could affect your take-home salary. Furthermore, while sales tax is non-existent in Portland, Oakland has a significant sales tax rate. Despite these economic challenges, Oakland's affluence is described as higher, which might reflect in its real estate and cost of living. Understanding these differences can help you prepare financially for your move.

Political & Religious Comparison between Portland, OR and Oakland, CA

Welcome! In this segment, we provide a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the comparison of the politics between Portland & Oakland to help you understand the political and religious makeup of the residents in these two vibrant cities. Whether you're curious about local politics, the general political leaning, or religious affiliations, this concise comparison will give you a clearer picture.

PortlandOakland

Political Make-up

Liberal/ProgressiveLiberal/Progressive

Local Politics

Strong focus on environmental issues and social equityHigh engagement in social justice and community activism

Religion

Non-religious/spiritual diversityDiverse religious communities, significant Christian and Muslim presence

While both Portland and Oakland are known for their liberal and progressive leanings, the essence of their political and religious landscapes brings unique flavors to each city. In Portland, there's a significant emphasis on environmental sustainability and equity, a stance that's mirrored in local policies and community initiatives. This focus aligns well with the city's reputation for being one of the most environmentally conscious in the U.S. Conversely, Oakland showcases a vibrant tapestry of social justice and activism, deeply embedded in the city's history and continual growth. Religious diversity is marked in both urban areas, with a broader spectrum of faith-based communities in Oakland, including a notable presence of both Christian and Muslim organizations. This comparison not only highlights the similarities but also the distinctive characteristics that contribute to the rich cultural and social fabric of both cities.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Portland to Oakland

Understanding the daily commute and traffic can significantly influence your decision when moving from Portland, OR to Oakland, CA. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Oakland aims to give you a clearer picture of what to expect in each city.

PortlandOakland
25.329.6

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

67.5

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

87

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some planning.Yes, but more challenging.

Can you get by without car?

In Portland, the public transit system is highly rated, with extensive bus and light rail options like the TriMet, making it easier for residents to commute without a car. On the other hand, Oakland, while having access to the Bay Area's BART system, faces higher traffic congestion levels, which can make driving more challenging. This is reflected in the slightly longer average commute times seen in Oakland. Despite this, both cities offer viable public transit options, even though residents in Oakland might find it slightly more challenging to get by without a car compared to those in Portland.

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