Moving from Portland to Durham?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Portland to Durham Movers

Moving from the eco-conscious, coffee-crazed streets of Portland to the historic, BBQ-savored avenues of Durham encapsulates an adventure ripe with life-changing promise. You're trading the City of Roses for Bull City, each with its unique vibe and community. Given the distance and logistics involved, ensuring your belongings' safe passage is critical, why we recommend securing trusted and reliable professional movers, a feat Great Guys Moving makes effortlessly achievable.

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

5 Best Portland to Durham Movers

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

#1
Raleigh Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 954+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Free estimates, Full Value Protection (FVP), Fully licensed and insured See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT: 3344628 Verify

About Raleigh Moving Company

Raleigh Moving Company is a locally owned and operated moving company offering residential and commercial services for local and long-distan...Read More >>

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#2
Athens Moving Experts Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon

based on 4,516+ data points

Raleigh, NC
Local Moving Services, Long Distance Moving Services, Commercial Moving Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/10/2024)

USDOT: 3205320 Verify

About Athens Moving Experts

Since 2015, Athens Moving Experts has helped Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, and communities across North Carolina with their residenti...Read More >>

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#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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#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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#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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Relocating from Portland to Durham Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can feel like navigating uncharted territory. To ease your transition, we present a comparison of local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Durham, NC. This guide aims to match you with a Durham neighborhood that shares the vibe and amenities of your favorite Portland area, making you feel right at home in no time.

PortlandDurham
Pearl DistrictDowntown Durham

Vibrant arts scene and historic buildings

Alberta Arts DistrictCentral Park

Eclectic shops and local eats

Nob HillTrinity Park

Historic homes and tree-lined streets

LaurelhurstHope Valley

Classic homes and green spaces

Sellwood-MorelandOld West Durham

Vintage finds and cozy vibes

Mississippi AvenueGeer Street

Trendy bars and unique boutiques

EastmorelandWatts-Hillandale

Serene with historic charm

St. JohnsCleveland-Holloway

Community-centric with artisan flair

HawthorneNinth Street

Bohemian with a mix of shops and cafes

BelmontBrightleaf

Blend of historic and modern conveniences

For instance, if you cherish the bustling streets, arts, and eateries of Portland's Pearl District, Downtown Durham will captivate you with its similar lively arts scene, historic architecture, and dining options like the esteemed Pizzeria Toro. Alberta Arts District lovers will find a kindred spirit in Durham's Central Park neighborhood, known for its unique stores and tasty locales such as Cocoa Cinnamon. Nob Hill's charming atmosphere is mirrored in Trinity Park, featuring the verdant greenery of Trinity Park itself and historic, picturesque homes. Meanwhile, Mississippi Avenue's hip, vibrant energy finds a counterpart in Geer Street, a must-visit for its funky bars and the popular Geer Street Garden. Each Durham neighborhood offers a unique blend of Portland's essence with its Southern charm, making for a smooth and exciting transition to your new home.

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Durham

Moving from one city to another involves weighing the benefits against the drawbacks. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Portland, OR to Durham, NC. By comparing the pros and cons, you’ll gain a clearer perspective on what to expect in your new city.

CONs
PROs
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Higher living costs
  • More rain
  • Limited sun
  • Smaller tech hub
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Lower living costs
  • Less rain
  • More sunny days
  • Larger tech community
Durham, NC iconDurham, NC
  • Less vibrant art scene
  • More limited cuisine
  • Fewer green spaces
  • Less bike-friendly
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Rich art scene
  • Diverse food options
  • Lush landscapes
  • Biking-friendly

While weighing the pros and cons of moving from Portland, OR to Durham, NC, it's important to delve deeper beyond the surface. Durham boasts an impressive tech scene, welcoming newcomers to the Research Triangle Park (RTP), a beacon for innovation and technology. Despite Portland's advantage in terms of a rich arts scene, Durham is home to unique cultural gems like the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) and the vibrant American Tobacco Historic District. Although the move may mean bidding farewell to Portland's unparalleled food carts, Durham offers eclectic dining options, from the renowned Pizzeria Toro to the Southern comfort of Dame's Chicken and Waffles. While Portland's lush landscapes may be unmatched, Durham's Eno River State Park offers a natural escape for hiking and picnicking, ensuring that outdoor enthusiasts still have plenty to explore.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Portland to Durham

Food is an integral part of local culture, highlighting what life in an area is like. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland, OR & Durham, NC to assist you in getting acquainted with the food scene of your new home.

PortlandDurham

Most iconic local food item

Dungeness CrabPulled Pork BBQ

Most popular meat dish

Pok Pok's Vietnamese Fish Sauce WingsEastern Carolina BBQ

Most popular street food item

Food Cart PodsBull City Street Food

Most popular vegan food

Homegrown SmokerFiction Kitchen

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

    • Le Pigeon
    • Salt & Straw
    • Nong's Khao Man Gai
    • Durham Food Hall
    • Mateo Bar de Tapas
    • Pizzeria Toro

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

87

Abundance of Food Trucks

98

Foodie Scene

98

Vegan Friendly

108

Portland, known for its Dungeness Crab and endless options of street food, reflects the city’s creative and inclusive food scene. Food cart pods across neighborhoods like Hawthorne and Alberta offer a taste of the city's diversity, from Vietnamese dishes at Pok Pok to vegan delights at Homegrown Smoker. Conversely, Durham's cuisine is deeply rooted in its Southern heritage, evident in its famous Pulled Pork BBQ and the Eastern Carolina BBQ continuum. Durham Food Hall and Pizzeria Toro are just a couple of places that showcase the city's evolving food scene, catering to both traditional and contemporary tastes. Whether you're moving to Portland or Durham, you'll step into a world where local cuisine tells the stories of the community’s past and present.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Portland to Durham

When setting roots in a new city, discovering local eateries that resonate with your taste can truly make it feel like home. This guide offers a restaurant comparison to help you transition from Portland to Durham, highlighting familiar flavors and atmospheres in your new locale. Whether you're craving high-end dining experiences or casual bites, this comparison will lead you to your new favorite spots.

Le PigeonMateo Bar de Tapas

Both offer unique, inventive dishes in a cozy, upscale setting.

Pok PokM Sushi

While differing in cuisine, both are known for their authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients.

TuskPizzeria Toro

Both focus on fresh, local ingredients in a stylish, laid-back environment.

Screen DoorDame's Chicken & Waffles

Both serve iconic, comfort food that's become a staple of their respective cities.

Nong's Khao Man GaiCOPA

Offers a simple, yet perfectly executed menu highlighting the best of its cuisine, much like Nong's.

Ken's Artisan PizzaPompieri Pizza

Both are celebrated for their wood-fired pizzas and commitment to quality ingredients.

Salt & StrawThe Parlour

Both are destination spots for unique and adventurous ice cream flavors made with local ingredients.

Apizza SchollsMotorco Music Hall

Offers pizza with a creative twist, in a vibrant, eclectic space similar to Apizza Scholls.

OxBar Virgile

Both are known for their upscale, inventive takes on classic dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Pine State BiscuitsRise Biscuits Donuts

Famous for their comfort food breakfast items, drawing locals and visitors alike.

In replacing one food scene with another, nuances in flavor, ambiance, and innovation play key roles. M Sushi in Durham mirrors Pok Pok's commitment to authenticity and high-quality ingredients, albeit in the realm of Japanese cuisine. Meanwhile, the transition from Screen Door's Southern comfort specialties to Dame's signature chicken and waffles in Durham offers a comforting continuity amidst change. Each Portland favorite has a Durham counterpart that not only matches in quality but also enriches the newcomer's dining experience with local flavors. These comparisons promise an exciting culinary journey as you make Durham your new home.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Portland to Durham

Real estate plays a crucial role in relocating. Understanding the key differences between Portland, OR, and Durham, NC, in terms of housing aspects such as cost, statistics, architecture, walkability, and more can significantly steer your decision-making process. Here's how these vibrant cities compare in reliance to real estate.

When examining the housing market in Portland and Durham, notable differences emerge, particularly in median home prices, which are significantly lower in Durham, making it an attractive option for homebuyers. Portland's urban lifestyle score and bikeability reflect its strong emphasis on sustainability and outdoor living, characteristics deeply embedded in the city's fabric. Conversely, Durham's real estate listings frequently highlight large yards, hinting at a preference for more spacious living environments. Additionally, Portland's Craftsman-style homes add a unique architectural charm, contrasting with Durham's Colonial Revival influences that evoke a sense of historical richness.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Portland to Durham

When planning a move from Portland, OR, to Durham, NC, understanding the weather differences between these two cities is crucial. This comparison will provide insights into what changes you can expect in the climate, aiding in your preparation for a new environment. The purpose of the charts is to compare the weather in Portland and Durham, highlighting key climatic differences that could impact your daily life and activities post-relocation.

Summer icon
80°F / 58°F

Portland, OR

89°F / 71°F

Durham, NC

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

50°F / 30°F

Durham, NC

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
43

Portland, OR

48

Durham, NC

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Portland, OR

6

Durham, NC

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Portland to Durham, you'll notice a significant increase in sunshine days and warmer summer temperatures, making Durham summers feel quite hot and humid compared to your experience in Portland. However, the winter temperatures in both cities are surprisingly similar, with Portland having slightly milder winters due to its coastal climate. Another point to note is the prevalence of different natural disasters, with Portland being prone to earthquakes and floods, while Durham is more susceptible to hurricanes and tornadoes. Adjusting to these changes will be important for your safety and comfort in Durham.

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

When relocating from one city to another, understanding the financial differences is key to a smooth transition. This comparison will spotlight the money and finance differences between Portland, OR and Durham, NC to help you gauge how your expenses, income, and lifestyle may shift with your move.

Examining the financial aspects of Portland and Durham reveals important contrasts. For instance, the average household income is higher in Portland, but the cost of living is significantly lower in Durham, easing the financial strain for many residents. State income tax is another considerable difference, with Portland residents facing a higher rate compared to those in Durham. This difference can result in more disposable income for you in Durham. Additionally, the dominant industries in each city highlight potential career opportunities which could influence your decision based on your professional background. Understanding these variances is crucial for planning your relocation and maintaining financial stability.

Political & Religious Comparison between Portland, OR and Durham, NC

Planning your move from Portland, OR to Durham, NC? Get a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Portland & Durham to understand your new community. Whether it's voting patterns or local churches, this comparison helps bridge the understanding of these two vibrant cities.

PortlandDurham

Political Make-up

Progressive/LiberalProgressive/Liberal

Local Politics

Focused on environmental and social issuesEmphasis on social justice and education reform

Religion

Eclectic; less religious overallMore traditional; diverse religious communities

When moving from Portland to Durham, you'll find both cities share progressive ideologies, but they express these values differently. Portland often channels its progressive nature into environmental and social issues. In contrast, Durham's liberal leanings are more concentrated on social justice and improving education. Religion in Portland is more eclectic with a notable portion of the population identifying as non-religious, whereas Durham hosts a more traditional and diverse set of religious communities. This gives Durham a somewhat more conventional social fabric compared to Portland's often labeled "keep it weird" culture.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Portland to Durham

Moving from Portland, OR to Durham, NC, requires an understanding of the differences in daily commute and traffic. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Durham helps you anticipate what your new daily routine might look like.

PortlandDurham
25.322.1

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

64

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

83

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, with planningChallenging

Can you get by without car?

Portland enjoys a robust public transit system, including buses, light rail, and streetcars, making it comparatively easier to navigate the city without a vehicle. The average commute time is slightly longer than Durham's, but the city's commitment to public transportation and bike-friendly streets helps mitigate traffic congestion. On the other hand, Durham's smaller scale and less congested roads offer a quicker commute but heavily depend on personal vehicles due to limited public transit options. Hence, moving to Durham might necessitate having a car, contrasting Portland's more flexible transit landscape.

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