Best Portland to Chicago Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the lush, quirky vibe of Portland, OR, to the bustling, architectural grandeur of Chicago, IL, marks an exciting chapter in your life, filled with new adventures and opportunities. You're leaving behind the laid-back, coffee-loving culture of "Stumptown" for the Windy City, a place renowned for its deep-dish pizza, jazz, and towering skyline. Given the distance and complexities of such a move, it's crucial to rely on trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure a smooth transition, and that's where we come in, offering you only the best based on an unbiased ranking algorithm to make your move as seamless as possible.
Best Portland to Chicago Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 606 Movers, Inc. | 9.36 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Move-tastic! | 9.35 | 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 |
| You Move Me Portland | 9.26 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Chicago to Portland guide.
5 Best Portland to Chicago Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About 606 Movers, Inc.
606 Movers, Inc. has been serving the Chicagoland area for over 12 years. This professional moving company offers quality, eco-friendly movi...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Movers
- Commercial Movers
- Packing & Unpacking Services
About Move-tastic!
What happens when two passionate triathletes decide to make extra income using their physical abilities? The result is an energetic moving c...Read More >>
Services
- Full Moves
- Truck Loading and Unloading
- Interstate Moving Assistance
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 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 >>
Services
- Local moving services
- Long-distance moving services
- Packing services
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.
Portland vs. Chicago Neighborhood Comparison
Moving from one city to another can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new surroundings. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison to help you find the neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Chicago, IL that best match your lifestyle and preferences. By looking at the top neighborhoods in Portland and finding their counterparts in Chicago, you can start feeling at home even before you've unpacked.
| Portland | Chicago | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | River North | Art galleries, upscale dining |
| Northwest District | Lincoln Park | Historic homes, vibrant shopping |
| Alberta Arts District | Wicker Park | Creative hub, eclectic eateries |
| Mississippi | Logan Square | Bohemian vibe, craft breweries |
| Sellwood-Moreland | Andersonville | Vintage shops, community atmosphere |
| Ladd's Addition | Ravenswood | Tree-lined streets, unique architecture |
| Hawthorne | Lakeview | Lively nightlife, diverse dining |
| Richmond | Roscoe Village | Family-friendly, quaint local spots |
| Nob Hill | Gold Coast | Historic mansions, luxury shopping |
| Eastmoreland | Beverly | Lush parks, tight-knit community feel |
Exploring these neighborhood pairings further, if you're drawn to the vibrant arts scene of Portland's Alberta Arts District, with its monthly Last Thursday art walk and indie stores like Crafty Wonderland, you'll find a similar spirit in Chicago's Wicker Park. This neighborhood is a haven for creatives, boasting a lively arts scene, bookshops such as Volumes Bookcafe, and cutting-edge galleries. Meanwhile, Portland's Sellwood-Moreland, known for its antique shops and the historic Oaks Amusement Park, finds its counterpart in Andersonville, Chicago. Andersonville is celebrated for its Swedish heritage, reflected in its unique boutiques like Swedish American Museum, and bustling Clark Street, which is a hub for vintage shopping and diverse dining experiences.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Chicago
Moving from Portland, OR to Chicago, IL represents a significant change, one full of contrasts. This comparison seeks to present an honest reflection of both the challenges and improvements awaiting you, highlighting critical differences in lifestyle, weather, and culture. Understanding these changes will help you prepare for your relocation.
Portland, OR- Less public transit
- Higher state income tax
- Smaller city vibe
- Less diverse cuisine
Chicago, IL- Extensive L system
- Lower state income tax
- Larger urban feel
- World-class dining
Chicago, IL- Urban density
- Harsh winters
- Indoor-oriented
- Busier pace
Portland, OR- Lush green spaces
- Milder winters
- Outdoor lifestyle
- Eco-conscious community
Those considering a move from Portland, OR, to Chicago, IL, will discover a transformation in lifestyle. Chicago's world-class dining scene, including establishments like Alinea and Girl & The Goat, offers an unrivaled culinary journey compared to the more limited options in Portland. Meanwhile, Portland's renowned for its lush, green spaces like Forest Park provides a stark contrast to Chicago's urban density, though Chicago compensates with its iconic Millennium Park and the lakeside beauty of Lincoln Park. While making the switch, you'll exchange Portland's milder winters for Chicago's infamous windy and harsh ones, a notable adjustment for any outdoor enthusiast. Yet, the move to Chicago opens up diverse cultural explorations, from its history-rich museums to its vibrant theater scene, promising a lively, enriched urban experience.
Portland vs. Chicago Food Guide
Food plays a pivotal role in understanding a city's culture and lifestyle. To help you get a taste of what to expect as you transition from one city to another, we will examine the comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Chicago . This comparison aims to give you a better insight into the culinary delights awaiting you in your new home.
| Portland | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Doughnuts | Deep-dish pizza |
| Most popular meat dish | Pulled Pork Sandwich | Italian Beef Sandwich |
| Most popular street food item | Food Carts Fare | Chicago-style Hot Dog |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Chicago, deep-dish pizza and the Chicago-style hot dog stand out as iconic local foods, emblematic of the city’s rich culinary heritage. Places like Lou Malnati's offer some of the most authentic deep-dish pizzas, while Portillo's serves up the quintessential Chicago-style hot dog. Exploring neighborhoods like the West Loop or River North will uncover a plethora of dining experiences that reflect Chicago’s diverse food scene, from gourmet restaurants like Alinea to casual eateries and food trucks dotting the cityscape. Whether you’re craving innovative vegan dishes or hearty meat sandwiches, Chicago’s culinary offerings are as varied as they are delicious.
Portland vs. Chicago Restaurant Comparison
Embarking on a move from Portland, OR, to Chicago, IL, means transplanting your life from one vibrant city to another. A crucial part of feeling at home in a new city is discovering eateries that resonate with your taste buds. This restaurant comparison between Portland, OR, and Chicago, IL, is crafted to help you find your next favorite dining spots, making the transition a little more delicious.
| Portland | Chicago | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Alinea | Both offer innovative, fine dining experiences with unique tasting menus |
| Pok Pok | Andy's Thai Kitchen | Authentic Thai flavors with a similar cult following |
| Screen Door | Luella's Southern Kitchen | Southern comfort food with a reputation for quality |
| Tusk | AbuQir Seafood | Fresh, vibrant Middle Eastern flavors with a focus on quality ingredients |
| Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen | Pho's Spicier Thai Cuisine | Both offer a cozy ambiance with a focus on authentic, flavorful dishes |
| Apizza Scholls | Pequod's Pizza | Both acclaimed for their unique takes on traditional pizza |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | Rainbow Cuisine | Known for their home-style cooking and authentic Thai flavors |
| Voodoo Doughnut | Stan's Donuts & Coffee | Both iconic spots for inventive, delicious doughnuts |
| Blue Star Donuts | Firecakes Donuts | Gourmet donuts with high-quality, unique flavors |
| Salt & Straw | Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams | Craft ice creameries known for their innovative, mouthwatering flavors |
Finding a slice of Portland in Chicago isn't as daunting as it seems, especially when it comes to dining. Luella's Southern Kitchen in Chicago is a beloved spot for those seeking the warmth and soul of Screen Door's southern comfort food, offering a menu that's both familiar and exciting. On the sweeter side, doughnut aficionados mourning the absence of Voodoo Doughnut can find solace in Stan's Donuts & Coffee, where the creativity and quality rival Portland's famed treat. And for those nights when only the best ice cream will do, Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams provides an artisanal touch akin to Salt & Straw, with flavors that are just as innovative and delightful. These comparisons hint at the rich tapestry of culinary experiences awaiting you in your new Chicago neighborhood, ensuring you'll never be far from a taste of home.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Chicago Real Estate & Living Facts
As you consider relocating, understanding real estate nuances between your current city and future home is vital. This comparison shines a light on housing variables in Portland, OR and Chicago, IL , focusing on the aspects most pertinent to making your move as smooth as possible.
| Comparison | Portland | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Ranch | Greystone, Bungalow |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Eco-friendly features, big yards | Lake views, proximity to transit |
In both Portland and Chicago, the housing market reflects the distinct personalities of each city. Portland's eco-conscious ethos is evident in its real estate, with listings often highlighting sustainable features and spacious yards suitable for gardening. The city's renowned bikeability makes neighborhoods like the Pearl District and Northwest Portland especially desirable. On the other hand, Chicago's architecture tells a story of historical depth, from the iconic Greystones lining residential streets to modern high-rises offering lake views. Chicago's urban lifestyle score reflects its vibrant city life, from The Magnificent Mile to the theater district, showcasing the city as a hub of cultural and professional opportunity with a slightly elevated cost of living and rent compared to Portland.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Chicago, IL
1. Lincoln Park: With its sprawling namesake park, you'll find plenty of green spaces for walks and the Lincoln Park Dog Park where your furry friend can run off-leash.
2. Lakeview: Home to the popular Wiggly Field Dog Park, Lakeview offers an urban setting with a pet-friendly attitude, hosting numerous pet supply shops and pet-friendly patios.
3. Andersonville: This community-oriented neighborhood not only features pet-friendly dining and shopping but also events like the annual Andersonville Pet Parade, making it a delightful place for pet owners.
Portland vs. Chicago Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another significantly impacts your daily life, especially when it comes to weather differences. Understanding how the weather in Portland, OR compares to Chicago, IL, is crucial in preparing for your relocation. This comparison is here to guide you in setting the right expectations and helping you plan accordingly.
Portland, OR
Chicago, IL
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Chicago, IL
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Chicago, IL
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Chicago, IL
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Floods | Snowstorms, Tornadoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Portland to Chicago, you’ll notice significant changes particularly in winter temperatures and snowfall. Chicago experiences colder winters with a higher average snowfall, making it necessary to prepare for snowy conditions. Conversely, Portland's higher humidity levels throughout the year might be something you'll miss, contributing to a different outdoor experience. Both cities enjoy a vibrant change of seasons, but your wardrobe and outdoor activities might need an adjustment. Moreover, natural disaster preparedness will shift from concerns about earthquakes in Portland to preparing for Chicago’s snowstorms and occasional tornadoes. This comparison should help you anticipate and adapt to your new climate with ease.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Chicago
When contemplating a move from Portland, OR to Chicago, IL, it's key to grasp how each area stacks up in terms of finances and cost of living. Comprehending the differences will enable you to plan thoroughly, ensuring a seamless transition to your new home.
| Comparison | Portland | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $66,576 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 116.9 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 4.95 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.91 | 2.16 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 10.25 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Healthcare, Manufacturing | Finance, Healthcare, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Moderate | Varied |
| Poverty | Noticeable | Significant |
| Homelessness | High | High |
Adjusting to life in Chicago from Portland offers a varied financial landscape. Despite a lower average household income in Chicago, the overall cost of living is more favorable compared to Portland. One notable contrast arises in state and local tax rates; Illinois features a flat state income tax rate significantly lower than Oregon's progressive tax system, yet Cook County in Chicago offsets this with one of the highest sales tax rates in the country. Moreover, the primary industries driving each city's economy suggest diverse employment opportunities. It's essential to consider these economic dynamics and how they align with your financial and professional goals as you make your transition.
Portland vs. Chicago Political & Religious Comparison
This quick comparison aims to give you a bold snapshot of the politics between Portland & Chicago by examining the political and religious makeup of these vibrant cities. Whether you're moving for work, family, or adventure, understanding the community you're joining can help ease the transition.
| Portland | Chicago | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, environmental focus | Historically Democratic, strong labor history |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | Larger variety of religious affiliations |
Portland and Chicago share liberal political leanings, but the flavor of their local governance and political issues do vary. Portland is known for its progressive policies and a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, which can be seen in its urban planning and community initiatives. Meanwhile, Chicago's political scene has deep roots in the Democratic party with a significant focus on labor rights and history. When it comes to religious makeup, Portland stands out for having one of the highest percentages of non-religiously affiliated individuals in the nation, while Chicago offers a broader tapestry of religious communities, reflecting its more diverse population.
Portland vs. Chicago Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Portland, OR to Chicago, IL means adapting to new traffic patterns and public transportation options. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Chicago is designed to help you better understand what your daily commute might look like after the move.
| Comparison | Portland | Chicago |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 35 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Possible, but challenging | Yes, easier |
While the average commute time in Portland might seem more manageable, Chicago's extensive public transit system, including the CTA buses and "L" trains, makes it easier to live in the city without a car. Traffic congestion is higher in Chicago, which is something to consider if you're planning on driving. However, the high availability and efficiency of public transportation in Chicago could significantly offset this. The contrast in the ease of getting by without a car highlights the adjustments you might need to make when transitioning from Portland's somewhat car-dependent environment to Chicago's more transit-friendly layout.
