Moving from Portland to Denver?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

Want help with the heavy lifting?

Portland to Denver Movers

Moving from the City of Roses to the Mile-High City is an adventure filled with exciting life changes and promising new beginnings. You’ll trade Portland’s lush landscapes and hipster coffee shops for Denver’s stunning mountain views and vibrant outdoor life. To ensure this significant transition is as smooth as possible, trust in our carefully vetted professional movers, ranked best in the country by Great Guys Moving, ensuring you start your new chapter on the right foot.

Oregon iconArrow iconColorado icon
U-turn icon

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

5 Best Portland to Denver Movers

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

#1
Movemasters, Inc. Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,188+ data points

Denver, CO
Local Moving, Long-Distance Moving, Household Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 1290433 Verify

About Movemasters, Inc.

Located in Denver and serving customers locally and statewide for close to 40 years, Movemasters Inc. values trust, reputation, and results....Read More >>

top 10 denver 2024 movemasters inc image
top 3 ranked movers in denver 2023 movemasters inc image
top 3 ranked movers in denver 2022 movemasters inc image
#2
Denver Door to Door Movers LLC Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,353+ data points

Denver, CO
Residential Moving, Commercial Moving, Professional Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3184789 Verify

About Denver Door to Door Movers LLC

Located in Mile High City, Denver Door to Door Movers is an experienced moving company providing residential and commercial moves. The famil...Read More >>

top 10 denver 2024 denver door to door movers llc image
top 10 ranked movers in denver 2023 denver door to door movers llc image
top 10 ranked movers in denver 2022 denver door to door movers llc 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 >>

top 10 portland 2024 northwest grace moving image
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 >>

top 10 gresham 2024 you move me portland image
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 >>

top 10 salem 2024 all service moving image
top 25 ranked movers in america 2023 image
top ranked movers in portland 2023 all service moving image

Relocating from Portland to Denver Neighborhood Guide

If you're planning a move from Portland, OR, to Denver, CO, and want to find a neighborhood that feels like home, you're in the right spot. This comparison aims to help you familiarize yourself with Denver by comparing it to Portland's neighborhoods . Whether you're seeking vibrant nightlife, quiet suburban life, or artsy vibes, we've got you covered.

PortlandDenver
Pearl DistrictLoHi

Trendsetting restaurants & modern apartments

Alberta Arts DistrictRiNo

Creative art scene & craft breweries

Ladd’s AdditionCongress Park

Historic homes & lush gardens

Northwest DistrictHighland

Walkable with a mix of old & new architecture

MississippiBaker

Eclectic shopping & indie music venues

Mount TaborWashington Park

Expansive parks & recreational activities

LaurelhurstPark Hill

Quiet residential with beautiful parkways

Sellwood-MorelandPlatt Park

Family-friendly with a small-town feel

HawthorneCapitol Hill

Vibrant nightlife & diverse culture

St. JohnsSunnyside

Community focused with local charm

If you adore the vibrant arts scene and the bustling streets of Alberta Arts District in Portland, with its independent galleries like Guardino Gallery, you'll find Denver's RiNo (River North Art District) equally enchanting. RiNo is a canvas for street artists, home to many craft breweries like Denver Beer Co., and creative spaces. Meanwhile, the serene beauty of Mount Tabor's park mirrors the lush expanses of Washington Park in Denver, where activities abound from jogging trails to boat rentals on Smith Lake. Both areas offer an escape from the urban hustle without leaving the city, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking an urban oasis.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Denver

Moving from one city to another presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to reflect an honest perspective of relocating from Portland, OR to Denver, CO, showcasing both the benefits and drawbacks. Understanding these contrasting points will help you make an informed decision about your move.

CONs
PROs
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Higher rainfall
  • Less sunshine
  • Fewer big tech jobs
  • Lower average altitude
  • Smaller craft beer scene
Denver, CO iconDenver, CO
  • Dryer climate
  • More sunny days
  • Growing tech hub
  • Higher elevation
  • Larger craft beer landscape
Denver, CO iconDenver, CO
  • Less greenery
  • Fewer coffee shops
  • Smaller art community
  • Less bike-friendly
  • Fewer live music venues
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Lush, green landscape
  • Strong coffee culture
  • Rich art scene
  • Extensive bike lanes
  • Vibrant music scene

Whether you're bidding farewell to the verdant landscapes of Portland's Forest Park and the iconic Powell's City of Books, or eager to dive into Denver's burgeoning tech scene and expansive craft beer market, each city offers a distinctive living experience. Denver's RiNo (River North Art District) is bustling with art galleries, craft breweries like Epic Brewing Company, and unique eateries, creating a dynamic culinary and cultural landscape. On the other hand, Portland's commitment to nature and sustainability is evident in its numerous parklands and community gardens. While Denver provides sunny skies and a gateway to the Rockies, Portland's charm lies in its rain-soaked streets and cozy coffee shops, offering a stark contrast in environment and lifestyle.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Portland to Denver

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Denver to shine a light on the culinary diversity and richness each city has to offer. Understanding the food scene is crucial for anyone looking to move, as it deeply influences the local culture and overall living experience in an area.

PortlandDenver

Most iconic local food item

Voodoo DoughnutRocky Mountain Oysters

Most popular meat dish

Pork BellyBuffalo Steak

Most popular street food item

Food CartsGreen Chili

Most popular vegan food

Jackfruit TacosSeitan Wings

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Le Pigeon
  • Screen Door
  • Pok Pok
  • Elway's
  • Snooze, an A.M. Eatery
  • Linger

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

98

Abundance of Food Trucks

107

Foodie Scene

108

Vegan Friendly

109

In Denver, the food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Rocky Mountain Oysters, a unique local delicacy, may raise some eyebrows, but they're a must-try for the adventurous eater. For meat lovers, Buffalo Steak represents the essence of Colorado cuisine, reflecting the state's rich ranching heritage. The city's fondness for Green Chili, found in various eateries around the city, especially in the historic neighborhoods of LoDo and RiNo, demonstrates Denver's love for bold flavors. Vegetarians and vegans are not left out, with places like City, O' City in Capitol Hill offering inventive plant-based dishes that even meat-eaters will enjoy. Denver's culinary scene is dynamically evolving, promising exciting culinary adventures for its residents.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Portland to Denver

Finding your gastronomic home in a new city can be a thrilling journey. This restaurant comparison between Portland and Denver will guide you in discovering your next favorite dining spots, easing the transition and enriching your culinary experiences in your new locale.

Le PigeonFrasca Food & Wine

Both offer a passionate take on local ingredients with a fine dining atmosphere.

Screen DoorLucile's Creole Cafe

Both are renowned for their exceptional takes on classic Southern breakfast and brunch.

Pok PokUncle

Matched in their innovative approach to Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly noted for Thai dishes.

Ken's Artisan PizzaCart-Driver

Both highly praised for their wood-fired pizzas and cozy, welcoming environment.

Nong's Khao Man GaiChoLon Modern Asian

While ChoLon offers a broader Asian menu, its approach to flavors and ingredients draws parallels with Nong's focused excellence on chicken rice.

Salt & StrawLittle Man Ice Cream

Offering innovative and delightful flavor combinations that make each visit an adventure.

Tasty n DaughtersDenver Biscuit Company

Both excel in comforting, hearty American breakfast and brunch dishes with a unique twist.

Blue Star DonutsVoodoo Doughnut

Both cult favorites for donut lovers, offering creative flavors and high-quality ingredients.

Apizza SchollsBlue Pan Pizza

Both have earned accolades for their authentic and meticulously crafted pizzas, focusing on quality above all.

Stumptown Coffee RoastersHuckleberry Roasters

With a dedication to the art of coffee, both serve expertly brewed cups along with a passionate commitment to their communities.

For those who relish in the culinary arts, moving from Portland to Denver doesn’t mean leaving behind the eclectic and vibrant food scene you've grown to love. In Denver, you’ll find places like Frasca Food & Wine that echo the fine dining experiences similar to Le Pigeon, with both restaurants priding themselves on innovative uses of local ingredients. Missing the unique ice cream flavors Portland's Salt & Straw is known for? Little Man Ice Cream in Denver churns out imaginative concoctions that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. It's this bespoke transition from one beloved establishment to another that makes moving to a new city an exciting gastronomic adventure.

CTA Banner background image

Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Portland to Denver

Real estate ranks among the most crucial factors to consider when moving. It's vital to understand how the two cities compare in this aspect. This guide will delve into the housing details of Portland, OR and Denver, CO, including costs, architecture, and lifestyle scores.

When comparing Portland and Denver, it's evident that both cities offer unique advantages for prospective homeowners and renters. Portland's Victorian and Craftsman homes often include lush green spaces and are close to vibrant cafes. This dovetails with its high walkability and bikeability scores, making it a haven for those who value a pedestrian-friendly lifestyle. Denver, while slightly less walkable, compensates with breathtaking mountain views from your backyard and easy access to outdoor activities, reflective of its modern and mid-century architectural leanings. The slightly higher home prices and rent in Denver are offset by its appeal to those who cherish an outdoor lifestyle and urban convenience.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Denver, CO

1. Wash Park: With the expansive Washington Park at its heart, your pets will love the vast green spaces and two lakes perfect for your morning jogs or leisurely evening walks.

2. Highlands: Renowned for its walkability, the Highlands neighborhood boasts pet-friendly patios, several dog-friendly restaurants, and boutiques, making it a perfect place for you and your furry friend to explore.

3. Capitol Hill: Capitol Hill is filled with pet-friendly apartments and is close to several parks, including the Cheesman Park, making it ideal for pet owners looking for a vibrant urban community with plenty of green space for their pets.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Portland to Denver

When moving from Portland, OR to Denver, CO, it's crucial to grasp how the weather landscapes differ. Understanding these variances ensures you are well prepared for the climate shifts in your new home.

Summer icon
80°F / 57°F

Portland, OR

89°F / 60°F

Denver, CO

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

45°F / 18°F

Denver, CO

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Portland, OR

15

Denver, CO

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Portland, OR

60

Denver, CO

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

The transition from Portland to Denver means adapting to more extreme seasonal temperatures, with colder winters and hotter summers in Denver. The significant increase in sunshine days in Denver, compared to Portland, contributes to lower humidity levels, making Denver's air drier. This climate can impact daily life, from hydration habits to the choice of skin care products. While both cities experience seasonal allergies primarily from trees and grass, the drier Denver climate might alter the severity and timing of these allergies. Being prepared for these differences ensures a smoother adjustment to your new home.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and overall economic health in your new home—Portland or Denver—will compare to what you're accustomed to. This breakdown will guide you through the essential financial differences between these two vibrant cities.

While both Portland and Denver offer dynamic economic environments, certain differences could influence your decision to move. Despite having a slightly higher average household income, Portland's cost of living index and state income tax rates are also higher compared to Denver. However, Portland balances this with no sales tax, whereas Denver's sales tax nears 9%. It's also noteworthy that both cities are hubs for the technology sector among their top industries, but Denver distinguishes itself with aerospace and bioscience. Deciding factors may include your industry, preferred tax structure, and how you weigh the cost of living against job opportunities and quality of life.

Political & Religious Comparison between Portland, OR and Denver, CO

This brief comparison aims to provide a snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both Portland, OR, and Denver, CO. It’s designed to offer insights into the communities you're considering moving between, ensuring you understand the social fabric of your potential new home.

PortlandDenver

Political Make-up

LiberalLiberal

Local Politics

Progressive policiesModerate to progressive policies

Religion

Less religiously affiliatedModerate religious affiliation

While both Portland and Denver are known for their liberal political makeup, there are nuances in how this manifests in local politics and community values. Denver, for instance, tends to have a slightly more moderate stance on certain policies compared to Portland's strongly progressive leanings. This reflects not just in political discussions, but also in local legislation and community initiatives. Religion plays a varied role in both cities; however, Portland has a slightly higher percentage of residents who identify as religiously unaffiliated compared to Denver. Understanding these differences can help you anticipate the social and political climate of your new city.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Portland to Denver

Moving from Portland, OR to Denver, CO, it's crucial to understand the differences in traffic and transportation options. This comparison will help you gauge what your daily commute and traffic experiences might be like, setting realistic expectations for your relocation.

PortlandDenver
2625

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

65

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

86

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with some planningIt's more challenging

Can you get by without car?

In both Portland and Denver, the average commute time is relatively comparable, hovering around the 25-minute mark. However, Portland edges out with a slightly higher public transit rating, indicative of its robust TriMet system, which includes buses, light rail, and streetcars. This makes it somewhat easier to live in Portland without a car, compared to Denver. Denver, while growing its RTD public transit systems, may still require a car for more accessible and efficient commuting, especially if your job or lifestyle takes you outside of the city center or regular transit routes.

CTA Banner background image
Connect with one of our Certified Moving Partners.
Best Portland to Denver Movers Featured Image