Best Portland to Buffalo Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Portland to Buffalo Movers

Moving from the lush, rain-soaked streets of Portland, OR, to the vibrant, snow-dusted avenues of Buffalo, NY, marks an exhilarating chapter in your life. Leaving behind the City of Roses for the embrace of The Queen City, you're trading in Portland's artisanal coffee culture for Buffalo's iconic snowy winters and hearty fare. Given the distance and the life-changing nature of this move, it's crucial to choose trusted and reliable professional movers. At Great Guys Moving, we take the guesswork out of selecting the best by using an unbiased ranking algorithm, ensuring your adventure begins on the right note.

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Best Portland to Buffalo Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Northwest Grace Moving9.29A+Authorized For HHGContact
All Service Moving9.27A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
You Move Me Portland9.26NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Wayfinder Moving Services 9.03AAuthorized For HHGContact
Joey Z's Moving8.90NRActiveContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Buffalo to Portland guide.

5 Best Portland to Buffalo Moving Companies

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

Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional9.29/10
based on 605+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/9/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1999959 / 755213

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans3
Registered Drivers3
Total Annual Miles Moved50,000 (2023)
View Full Review
1
All Service Moving Logo
Exceptional
claimed company icon
9.27/10
based on 9,065+ data points

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 >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

1863079 / 722865

Authorized For Property, HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans80
Registered Drivers113
Total Annual Miles Moved1,186,786 (2022)
View Full Review
2
You Move Me Portland Logo
Exceptional9.26/10
based on 1,680+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 9/14/2021)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2388358 / 820850

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans10
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved45,000 (2020)
View Full Review
3
Wayfinder Moving Services  Logo
Superb9.03/10
based on 1,214+ data points

About Wayfinder Moving Services

Established in 2018, Wayfinder Moving Services has locations in both Buffalo, NY and Jamestown. As a business that specializes in customer ...Read More >>

Services

  • Cheap moving services
  • Local moving services
  • Long-distance moving services

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 12/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3104397 / 79366

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans9
Registered Drivers9
Total Annual Miles Moved220,000 (2022)
View Full Review
4
Joey Z's Moving Logo
Superb8.90/10
based on 214+ data points

About Joey Z's Moving

Backed by over 35 years of experience, Joey Z’s Moving serves all of New York State with reliable residential and commercial moves. It is a ...Read More >>

Services

  • Home & Apartment moving
  • Senior Moves
  • Business & Office moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/9/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3348965 / -

Active

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved-
View Full Review
5
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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. Buffalo Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease the transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Buffalo, NY to help you find a new home that resonates with the vibes of your old one. We'll match popular neighborhoods from Portland with their Buffalo counterparts based on their unique characteristics.

PortlandBuffaloHow They're Similar
Pearl DistrictElmwood VillageVibrant arts and dining scene
Alberta Arts DistrictAllentownHistoric, artsy, with a strong community feel
Nob HillDelaware DistrictUpscale, with historic homes and trendy shops
MississippiHertel AvenueDiverse, eclectic shops and eateries
Ladd's AdditionParksideHistoric homes near a sprawling park
HawthorneElmwood StripBohemian, with unique shops and cafes
Division/ClintonGrant StreetEmerging, with a mix of cultures and cuisines
St. JohnsSouth BuffaloStrong sense of community with historic charm
LaurelhurstNorth BuffaloFamily-friendly with beautiful parks and homes
Goose HollowWest SideDiverse, with a growing food scene and historic places

If you’re drawn to the Pearl District for its bustling arts scene and plethora of dining options, you’ll find a similar vibe in Elmwood Village, known for its vibrant arts scene, boutique shops, and cafes like Perks Cafe. Similarly, the Alberta Arts District's community-focused atmosphere is mirrored in Allentown, where historical charm blends with a rich artistic community, exemplified by venues like the Allentown Music Festival. For those who appreciate the historic and upscale feel of Nob Hill, the Delaware District offers an elegant array of historic homes and trendy shops lining Delaware Avenue. If the eclectic and diverse shops of Mississippi Avenue are your go-to, Hertel Avenue will charm you with its range of international dining options and unique stores, capturing the same eclectic spirit.

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Things to Do in Buffalo

  • Explore Albright-Knox Art Gallery
  • Watch a game at Sahlen Field
  • Visit Buffalo Zoo
  • Stroll through Botanical Gardens
  • Enjoy Niagara Falls tour
  • Skate at Canalside
  • Taste wings at Anchor Bar

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Buffalo

Moving from Portland, OR to Buffalo, NY offers a mix of opportunities and challenges. This comparison aims to give an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation, spotlighting the differences in lifestyle, climate, and cultural offerings between these two cities. By observing the pros and cons, you'll be better informed to make a decision that aligns with your personal and professional goals.

CONs
PROs
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Higher cost of living
  • Less snowfall
  • Heavier traffic
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • More affordable housing
  • Vibrant winter activities
  • Less congested roads
Buffalo, NY iconBuffalo, NY
  • Harsh winters
  • Less greenery
  • Smaller cultural scene
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Mild winters
  • Lush, green landscapes
  • Vibrant arts scene

Relocating from Portland, OR, to Buffalo, NY, presents a chance to enjoy the unique characteristics each city has to offer. In Buffalo, you'll find yourself enjoying the beauty of winter with activities like ice skating at Canalside or experiencing the famous Buffalo Wings at Anchor Bar, the birthplace of this iconic dish. Meanwhile, Portland's lush landscapes, like those in Washington Park, and its renowned arts scene, showcased in venues like the Portland Art Museum, represent what you might miss. Each city boasts its vibrant community and unique local spots that become part of your daily life, turning the cons into new opportunities to explore and the pros into cherished memories.

Portland vs. Buffalo Food Guide

When relocating, it's essential to consider not just the change in scenery but also the local culture, of which food is a significant part. Hence, we're embarking on a journey to explore the culinary landscapes of two vibrant cities. This comparison of the local cuisine between Portland & Buffalo aims to enrich your move by giving you a taste of what to expect in your new home.

PortlandBuffalo
Most iconic local food itemDonutsBuffalo Wings
Most popular meat dishBrisketBeef on Weck
Most popular street food itemFood CartsPizza Logs
Most popular vegan foodVegan BowlVegan Buffalo Wings
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
    • Pok Pok
    • Ken's Artisan Pizza
    • Salt & Straw
    • Anchor Bar
    • Gabriel's Gate
    • Ted's Hot Dogs
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Portland, the food scene is diverse, riding high on the farm-to-table movement, and the city’s Donuts are legendary, particularly those from iconic spots like Voodoo Doughnut. The brisket can be found in establishments across the city, but it's the plethora of food carts dotted in neighborhoods like Cartlandia that truly encapsulates Portland's food culture. On the other hand, moving to Buffalo, you'll dive into the birthplace of Buffalo Wings, with Anchor Bar being a must-visit. Beef on Weck, another local specialty, reflects the city's deep-rooted culinary traditions. Both cities boast a vibrant food landscape, but Buffalo, with its iconic dishes and a slightly more traditional base, offers a contrast to Portland's more eclectic and health-conscious options.

Portland vs. Buffalo Restaurant Comparison

Looking to move from Portland, OR to Buffalo, NY, but worried you won't find your next favorite dining spot? Don't fret! We've lined up the top restaurants in Portland against their Buffalo counterparts to ease your transition and help you discover new favorite eateries, comparing Portland, OR to Buffalo, NY . Whether you're into high-end experiences, casual bites, or the signature dishes that define a city's food scene, this guide has got you covered.

PortlandBuffaloWhat You'll Love
Le PigeonRistorante LombardoRefined, inventive dishes with a touch of class.
Pok PokSATOAuthenticity in every bite, celebrating traditional flavors.
Tasty n AlderElm Street BakeryCozy, farm-to-table vibes serving hearty and eclectic menus.
Voodoo DoughnutPaula’s DonutsIconic, quirky donuts that make any day better.
Screen DoorBig Ditch Brewing CompanyDelicious fare with a side of craft beer excellence.
Salt & StrawAnderson’s Frozen CustardA local favorite for frozen treats and unique flavors.
Apizza SchollsJay’s Artisan PizzeriaA dedication to pizza perfection and quality ingredients.
Blue Star DonutsDonut KrazeDelectable, gourmet donuts that elevate your morning.
Le ChonLas PuertasThe art of fine dining with a creative, international twist.
Nong’s Khao Man GaiWest Side BazaarDive into a melting pot of global cuisines, showcasing diversity.

Dining out is more than just eating; it's an experience that can define your perception of a city. In Buffalo, you'll find a vibrant culinary scene that mirrors the diversity and quality of what you've come to love in Portland. For instance, Ristorante Lombardo and Le Pigeon both offer an elevated dining atmosphere with dishes that speak to the heart of their culinary philosophies. If casual yet memorable dining encapsulates your style, then Elm Street Bakery in Buffalo captures the same essence as Tasty n Alder in Portland, inviting patrons into a warm, inviting space where every meal feels like it was made just for you. On the sweeter side, the quirky and inventive flavors at Paula’s Donuts are reminiscent of the experience at Voodoo Doughnut, ensuring your sweet tooth's cravings are well catered to in your new city. Exploring these eateries offers a delicious gateway to feeling right at home in Buffalo.

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Ready to start your move?

Portland vs. Buffalo Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate is a pivotal factor in relocating. Understanding how housing in Portland and Buffalo compares can significantly shape your move. This comparison dives into costs, architecture, and the lifestyle of both cities, providing a comprehensive view to aid in your decision-making.

ComparisonPortlandBuffalo
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman, ModernColonial, Victorian
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to nature, Eco-friendly featuresHistorical significance, Affordability

When comparing housing in Portland and Buffalo, it’s evident that both cities offer unique lifestyle perks. Portland, with its higher median home prices and rent, boasts an eco-conscious community, often highlighting features like solar panels or energy-efficient appliances in real estate listings. Its architecture heavily favors Craftsman and modern styles, providing a contemporary living scene. Conversely, Buffalo stands out for its affordability and rich historical tapestry, with Colonial and Victorian homes common, reflecting the city's deep historical roots. The urban lifestyle score, slightly lower than Portland’s, still promises an engaging city life with ample cultural experiences. Both cities have distinct atmospheres and priorities, which can cater to different tastes and needs for potential movers.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Buffalo, NY

1. Elmwood Village: Known for its walkable streets and the Elmwood Village Farmers Market, where you can often find pet-friendly vendors and plenty of space for your furry friends to explore.

2. Allentown: This vibrant neighborhood not only boasts a variety of pet-friendly dining options but is also home to the Allentown Association, which organizes events that are welcoming to pets.

3. Hertel Avenue: Famous for its Hertel Avenue Poutine & Cream, which offers outdoor seating where pets are welcome, and its close proximity to several parks where you can enjoy a day out with your pet.

Portland vs. Buffalo Weather Considerations

Moving from one city to another often means adapting to new weather patterns. It's essential you understand how the weather in Portland, OR, and Buffalo, NY, compare to easily adjust to your new home. This comparison will help you prepare for differences in temperature, sunlight, and more.

Summer icon
80°F / 55°F

Portland, OR

80°F / 60°F

Buffalo, NY

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

31°F / 18°F

Buffalo, NY

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36"

Portland, OR

40"

Buffalo, NY

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4"

Portland, OR

95"

Buffalo, NY

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPortlandBuffalo
Air QualityGood to ModerateModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, WildfiresSnowstorms, Flooding
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

Portland's mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers offer a stark contrast to Buffalo's snowy, cold winters and warm, humid summers. While both cities experience similar amounts of annual rainfall, Buffalo sees significantly more snowfall, averaging around 95 inches per year compared to Portland's 4 inches. This drastic difference in snowfall means you'll need to prepare for more rigorous winter weather activities and maintenance in Buffalo. Additionally, the similar number of sunny days might be comforting, but remember, Buffalo's wintertime sunshine often comes with below-freezing temperatures.

Ready to start your move?

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

Moving between cities can be a big change, especially when it comes to finances. If you're transitioning from Portland, OR to Buffalo, NY , understanding the differences in the cost of living , taxes , and employment opportunities can help better prepare you for what lies ahead. This comparison will give you a clearer picture of what to expect money-wise in your new home.

ComparisonPortlandBuffalo
Avg. Household Income$79,057$40,669
Cost of Living Index111.395.8
State Income Tax9.96.33
Avg. Property Tax0.912.53
Avg. Sales Tax08.75
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Manufacturing, HealthcareHealthcare, Education, Manufacturing
AffluenceModerateVaries
PovertyModerateHigh
HomelessnessHighModerate

When moving from Portland to Buffalo, you'll notice a significant difference in the cost of living, with Buffalo being considerably more affordable. This is reflected in the lower average household income in Buffalo, which is complemented by lower living costs. The tax structure also changes, with Buffalo residents facing a lower state income tax but a higher property tax. This juxtaposition highlights the importance of evaluating all aspects of finances, not just income, when relocating. Furthermore, while both cities have strong healthcare and manufacturing industries, Portland's booming technology sector contrasts with Buffalo's focus on education. This variation in leading industries may influence job opportunities available to you.

Portland vs. Buffalo Political & Religious Comparison

This is a comparison of the politics between Portland, OR & Buffalo, NY, providing a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents. This will help you understand the community you're moving into, focusing on how its political views and religious affiliations compare to those in Portland.

PortlandBuffalo
Political Make-upLiberal/ProgressiveModerately Liberal
Local PoliticsHighly active in environmental and social justice issuesFocus on economic revitalization and urban development
ReligionLess religiously affiliatedHigher Catholic presence

While both cities lean liberal, Portland is known for its highly progressive stance, particularly on environmental and social justice issues. You'll find that local politics often engage with topics like sustainability and equality. Buffalo, while also liberal, focuses more on economic and urban development, reflecting its ongoing revitalization efforts. Religion plays a different role in each city; Portland's residents are among the least religiously affiliated in the U.S., whereas in Buffalo, there's a significant Catholic community, reflecting in its numerous Catholic churches and institutions. These contrasting aspects can offer a unique social and cultural environment as you transition from Portland to Buffalo.

Portland vs. Buffalo Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Moving from Portland, OR to Buffalo, NY requires adjusting to different daily commutes and understanding the variations in traffic and transportation options between the two cities. This comparison aims to make that transition smoother for you by highlighting the key differences you can expect.

ComparisonPortlandBuffalo
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2621
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?Yes, with some planningMore challenging but possible

Moving from Portland to Buffalo, you'll notice right away that your commute times can be shorter, allowing for more personal or family time. Besides, Buffalo's lower traffic congestion level means you'll be spending less time stuck in traffic. While Portland prides itself on its robust public transit system, rated highly for its convenience and coverage, Buffalo offers decent public transit options, though they may not be as extensive, making it somewhat more challenging but still possible to get by without a car. These differences highlight the importance of considering your commute and transportation needs as you plan your move.

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