Moving from Portland to San Diego?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Portland to San Diego Movers

Moving from the quirky, coffee-splashed streets of Portland, OR to the sun-soaked shores of San Diego, CA is an adventure that promises new beginnings and exciting opportunities. You're leaving behind the City of Roses, with its eclectic food carts and lush parks, for the warmth of America's Finest City, known for its pristine beaches and laid-back lifestyle. In this pivotal chapter, the importance of entrusting your journey to professional, reliable movers cannot be overstated; that's why we at Great Guys Moving ensure you're matched with the very best, making your long-distance move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

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

5 Best Portland to San Diego Movers

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

#1
Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 477+ data points

San Diego, CA
Local Moves, Long-Distance Moves, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 3177184 Verify

About Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc.

Coast 2 Coast Moving, Inc. is a professional moving company based in San Diego, California. Founded by Donal and Jessica O'Neill, the compan...Read More >>

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#2
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
#3
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
#4
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 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in portland 2023 all service moving image
#5
M
Exceptional

based on 1,080+ data points

San Diego, CA
Cheap moving services, Local moving services, Long-distance moving services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 2403743 Verify

About Motivated Military Movers

Motivated Military Movers is a veteran-owned moving company founded in 2008 by a Navy Corpsman, based in San Diego, California. With over 13...Read More >>

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top 3 ranked movers in wagner 2023 motivated military movers image

Relocating from Portland to San Diego Neighborhood Guide

When relocating, familiarizing yourself with your new city can be a delightful adventure, especially when you can compare it to what you already know. This guide zeroes in on a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & San Diego, CA, designed to make your transition as seamless as possible. We'll help you find the San Diego neighborhood that mirrors the vibe of your favorite Portland spot.

PortlandSan Diego
Pearl DistrictLittle Italy

Vibrant arts and dining scene

Alberta Arts DistrictNorth Park

Eclectic arts, craft beer culture

Nob HillHillcrest

Diverse with a strong sense of community

Ladd's AdditionBankers Hill

Historic homes and quiet streets

Mississippi AveSouth Park

Laid-back, community-focused vibe

HawthorneNormal Heights

Hip, with unique shops and cafes

EastmorelandPoint Loma

Upscale, with waterfront views

Sellwood-MorelandOcean Beach

Relaxed beach town feel, antique shops

LaurelhurstCarmel Valley

Family-friendly, great parks

Forest ParkTorrey Pines

Natural beauty, extensive hiking trails

Moving from the artistic vibes of Portland's Alberta Arts District? North Park, in San Diego, will feel like home with its eclectic mix of art galleries, local craft breweries, and vibrant street art. Foodies transitioning from the Pearl District's gourmet scene will find solace in Little Italy's bustling farmers markets and array of Italian bistros, such as Bencotto Italian Kitchen and Ironside Fish & Oyster. For those who enjoy the historic charm and tranquility of Ladd's Addition, Bankers Hill offers a serene escape with its exquisite historic homes and the scenic Spruce Street Suspension Bridge. And if the laid-back, community-focused vibe of Mississippi Ave is what you'll miss, South Park's friendly atmosphere and local events will quickly make you feel at home.

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Things to Do in San Diego

  • Visit the San Diego Zoo
  • Explore Balboa Park
  • Relax at Coronado Beach
  • Dine in Little Italy
  • Experience SeaWorld San Diego
  • Play golf at Torrey Pines

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to San Diego

Moving from one city to another brings a blend of changes, be it climate, culture, or the cost of living. This guide aims to offer an honest reflection of the good and bad attributes of relocating from Portland, OR to San Diego, CA. By comparing the cons against the pros and vice versa, you'll gain a comprehensive overview to help make your decision.

CONs
PROs
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • More Rainy Days
  • Smaller City
  • Higher Taxes
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Sunnier Climate
  • Larger Urban Area
  • Lower State Income Tax
San Diego, CA iconSan Diego, CA
  • Less Diverse Arts Scene
  • Less Coffee Shops
  • More Urbanized
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Vibrant Arts Scene
  • Rich Coffee Culture
  • Abundant Nature

Portland is known for its vibrant arts scene, including renowned institutions like the Portland Art Museum and the Portland Institute for Contemporary Art (PICA), enhancing the city's cultural atmosphere. In contrast, while San Diego has notable places like the San Diego Museum of Art, some may find its arts scene less diverse. Portland's robust coffee culture, featuring iconic coffee shops such as Stumptown Coffee Roasters, is another aspect new San Diego residents might miss, despite the city's growing number of cafés. However, San Diego offers a sunnier climate, which is a significant plus for those tired of Portland's frequent rain. It also has beautiful beaches and parks, such as Balboa Park and La Jolla Cove, providing residents with picturesque views and outdoor activities year-round.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Portland to San Diego

Understanding local cuisine is a key part of immersing yourself into the lifestyle of a new city. As you prepare to move, it's important to explore the comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & San Diego to appreciate the unique food scenes that await you. Let's take a closer dive into what flavors and experiences each city has to offer.

PortlandSan Diego

Most iconic local food item

Voodoo DoughnutCalifornia Burrito

Most popular meat dish

Pork BellyCarne Asada

Most popular street food item

Food CartsFish Tacos

Most popular vegan food

Vegan RamenJackfruit Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    1. Le Pigeon
    2. Pok Pok
    3. Salt & Straw
    1. Juniper & Ivy
    2. Phil's BBQ
    3. George's at the Cove

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

89

Abundance of Food Trucks

98

Foodie Scene

99

Vegan Friendly

108

In Portland, the food carts and vegan scene are particularly vibrant, reflecting the city's innovative and inclusive approach to cuisine. You'll find an eclectic array of food trucks scattered across areas like the Alberta Arts District, offering everything from gourmet vegan offerings to international cuisine. On the other hand, San Diego's culinary landscape is deeply influenced by its proximity to Mexico, resulting in a wealth of Mexican-inspired dishes such as Carne Asada and Fish Tacos, notably found in neighborhoods like Little Italy and Pacific Beach. Both cities boast a strong health and fitness culture, though San Diego slightly edges out with its year-round outdoor dining opportunities and access to fresh produce, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts looking to blend taste with healthy living.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Portland to San Diego

Finding places that feel like home is pivotal when moving to a new city. This restaurant comparison is designed to help you discover your next favorite spots in San Diego, using Portland as your culinary blueprint. Whether you crave high-end dining or a cozy place for a casual bite, let this guide ease your transition.

Le PigeonJuniper & Ivy

Bold, inventive dishes that push culinary boundaries

Pok PokSaffron Thai

Authentic Thai flavors with a focus on street food

TuskKindred

A quirky, inventive plant-based menu that's full of flavor

Ken's Artisan PizzaBuona Forchetta

Handmade Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven

Screen DoorThe Crack Shack

Southern-inspired fare, specializing in gourmet fried chicken

Nong’s Khao Man GaiBahn Thai

Renowned for authentic Thai chicken dishes and attention to detail

Salt & StrawAn's Dry Cleaning

A unique gelato experience with inventive flavors, not a dry cleaner

Pine State BiscuitsGreat Maple

Known for modern American eats with a penchant for brunch

Apizza SchollsLandini's Pizzeria

Traditional thin-crust pizza that rivals the best

Blue Star DonutsDonut Bar

Award-winning donuts with a creative selection of flavors

When longing for the culinary comfort of Portland while settling into San Diego, you'll find Juniper & Ivy's innovative dishes reflecting the same daring spirit as Le Pigeon, promising a refreshingly high-end dining experience. For those missing Pok Pok’s authentic Thai flavors, Saffron Thai delivers with a focus on traditional street food that's sure to satisfy your cravings. Meanwhile, fans of Salt & Straw's unique ice cream offerings will find a similar spirit of invention at An's Dry Cleaning, where the gelato flavors are as unexpected as the name suggests. Each San Diego restaurant has been selected not only for their cuisine's authenticity but also for their ability to embody the essence of your Portland favorites, ensuring you don't have to compromise on quality or experience in your new city.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Portland to San Diego

When contemplating a move, diving into the real estate differences between Portland, OR, and San Diego, CA is crucial. Understanding the housing market intricacies ensures you make an informed decision tailored to your lifestyle and financial situation.

While Portland is known for its Craftsman homes, sustainability practices, and a highly walkable and bikeable urban layout, San Diego boasts Spanish Colonial architecture along with a slightly higher urban lifestyle ranking due to its vibrant beach culture and outdoor living opportunities. The cost of living, particularly housing, is notably higher in San Diego. With median home prices and rent significantly steeper, you're not just buying a home but also embracing a lifestyle heavily centered around sun, sea, and sand. Analyzing these aspects alongside your personal and financial priorities can guide you to a decision that best suits your lifestyle and budget.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in San Diego, CA

1. Ocean Beach: Known for its laid-back vibe, Ocean Beach features Dog Beach, where your furry friends can play off-leash in the surf and sand.

2. North Park: A neighborhood that embraces pet owners, North Park offers several pet-friendly dining options and the Morley Field Dog Park for off-leash fun.

3. Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood not only has multiple pet-friendly patios for dining but also hosts the annual Little Italy Doggie Street Festival, celebrating pets and their families.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Portland to San Diego

When considering a move from Portland, OR to San Diego, CA, understanding how the weather differs between these two locations is essential. This comparison will help you gauge what climate adjustments you may need to anticipate, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Summer icon
81° / 58°

Portland, OR

77° / 64°

San Diego, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47° / 36°

Portland, OR

66° / 49°

San Diego, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43.5

Portland, OR

11.9

San Diego, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.3

Portland, OR

0

San Diego, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Portland to San Diego, you'll exchange overcast skies and frequent rain for sun-drenched days and mild winters. San Diego offers significantly more sunny days per year, which could greatly impact your outdoor activities and vitamin D intake. Despite the lower humidity, San Diego's UV index is higher, necessitating more consistent sun protection. Interestingly, both cities share earthquake risks, but their other natural disaster risks differ, with Portland facing rainstorms and San Diego prone to wildfires. This knowledge will help you prepare for life in a different climatic zone, ensuring you're ready for its unique challenges and advantages.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand the financial implications of such a decision. This comparison aims to provide insights into how the cost of living and financial landscape in Portland and San Diego might affect your wallet. Being informed will help you prepare for the financial shift between these locations.

While the average household income in San Diego is slightly higher than in Portland, the cost of living index shows that San Diego is notably more expensive. This difference is pivotal as it impacts your daily expenses and lifestyle. Considering state income tax, Oregon has a higher rate despite having no sales tax, which contrasts with California's substantial sales tax. It's also important to note the differences in major industries, suggesting varied job opportunities. Lastly, both cities face challenges with homelessness, a critical social issue, yet they offer unique advantages in terms of affluence and economic robustness.

Political & Religious Comparison between Portland, OR and San Diego, CA

Whether you're planning to move for a new job, lifestyle change, or just a change of scenery, understanding the local culture is key. This quick comparison provides an at-a-glance snapshot highlighting the politics and religion between Portland, OR & San Diego, CA . It's designed to give you a sense of what to expect from your potential new neighbors.

PortlandSan Diego

Political Make-up

LiberalModerately Liberal

Local Politics

Progressive policiesBlend of progressive and moderate policies

Religion

Less religiously affiliatedMore diverse religious communities

When moving from Portland to San Diego, you'll find both cities lean towards liberal values, but San Diego presents a more mixed political scene, balancing progressive and moderate ideals. This blend creates a dynamic social environment which might feel different if you're coming from Portland's predominantly progressive landscape. Religion plays a different role in each city, with Portland having a higher percentage of residents identifying as non-religious, compared to San Diego's more varied religious landscape. The presence of diverse religious groups adds to the cultural richness of San Diego, making it an interesting shift from Portland. Also, note the presence of vibrant religious communities, such as Rock Church in San Diego, offering a variety of community services and events.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Portland to San Diego

Moving from Portland, OR, to San Diego, CA, can come with its fair share of adjustments, especially when it comes to your daily commute and how you navigate the city. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & San Diego is designed to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like in these two vibrant cities.

PortlandSan Diego
2425

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

66

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

86

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some planningChallenging but possible

Can you get by without car?

While the average commute times in Portland and San Diego are relatively similar, there are distinct differences in their public transit systems and the feasibility of living there without a car. Portland boasts a higher rating for public transportation, thanks to its extensive network of buses, light rail, and streetcars, including services like the TriMet. This makes getting around Portland without a car more feasible with some planning. On the other hand, San Diego, despite having a variety of transportation options including the MTS bus and trolley services, is generally considered more car-dependent. The difference in availability and convenience of public transportation could significantly impact your daily life and mobility in either city.

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