Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Portland to Salt Lake City Movers

Moving from the eclectic City of Roses to the breathtaking vistas of the Salt Lake Valley marks an exhilarating chapter in your life. While you're swapping Portland's quirky coffee shops and expansive parks for Salt Lake City's stunning mountain views and vibrant cultural scene, remember, it's more than just changing ZIP codes. To ensure this significant leap flows as smoothly as the descent from the Rockies, it's crucial to entrust your journey to professional movers. With Great Guys Moving, you're choosing peace of mind, knowing we rank the best movers with an unbiased algorithm, making sure your adventure starts on the right foot.

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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Salt Lake City to Portland guide.

5 Best Portland to Salt Lake City Movers

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

#1
801 Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 412+ data points

Millcreek, UT
Packing services, Long-distance moves, Local moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 4140953 Verify

About 801 Moving Company

801 Moving Company has been serving the Salt Lake City Metro, UT area since 2008. Based in Salt Lake City, this moving company offers a rang...Read More >>

top 3 salt lake city 2024 801 moving company image
#2
Best of Utah Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 1,595+ data points

Sandy, UT
Local moving, Long-distance moving, Office moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 9/11/2024)

USDOT: 2920944 Verify

About Best of Utah Moving Company

Best of Utah Moving Company is one of the top-rated local moving companies in Utah. It is fully licensed and insured and has been operating ...Read More >>

top 10 salt lake city 2024 best of utah moving company image
top 3 ranked movers in salt lake city 2023 best of utah moving company image
top 10 ranked movers in salt lake city 2022 best of utah moving company 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 >>

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

Relocating from Portland to Salt Lake City Neighborhood Guide

Relocating can be a maze of unfamiliar streets and unknown communities. To help you navigate this journey, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Salt Lake City, UT . Using this guide, you'll find parallels between neighborhoods you know and love, and those in your future city, making the unknown a little more familiar.

PortlandSalt Lake City
Pearl DistrictDowntown SLC

Vibrant urban living

Alberta Arts District9th and 9th

Eclectic and artsy vibe

Nob HillThe Avenues

Historic with a bohemian twist

Ladd's AdditionSugar House

Charming and walkable

MississippiBallpark

Emerging, trendy locale

HawthorneLiberty Wells

Bohemian and quaint

Mt. TaborThe Marmalade

Quiet, scenic views

EastmorelandYalecrest

Upscale, peaceful community

St. JohnsCapitol Hill

Diverse, with stunning views

Sellwood-MorelandFoothill

Family-friendly, with access to nature

In exploring these neighborhoods further, you'll discover that both the Pearl District in Portland and Downtown SLC offer an exciting urban lifestyle, complete with bustling streets, trendy eateries like Piazza Italia in Portland or The Copper Onion in Salt Lake City, and a rich arts scene. For a more eclectic and artsy vibe, Alberta Arts District's vibrant community translates well into Salt Lake City's 9th and 9th, where unique boutiques and cafes line the streets. Nature lovers drawn to Mt. Tabor’s expansive parks and paths will find a similar refuge in The Marmalade with its quiet streets and scenic views. Lastly, the historic charm and walkability of Sellwood-Moreland are mirrored in SLC's Foothill neighborhood, offering families a seamless transition with access to parks, schools, and community events. Whether you're looking for the city buzz or a quiet suburban life, understanding these neighborhood dynamics can greatly simplify your move.

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Things to Do in Salt Lake City

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City

Moving from Portland, OR to Salt Lake City, UT, offers a unique set of benefits and drawbacks. This comparison aims to present an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. Through these charts, we hope to provide insight into how the quality of life might change, focusing on what you are leaving behind and what awaits you in your new city.

CONs
PROs
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Higher cost of living
  • More rain
  • Less sunshine
  • Smaller tech scene
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less rain
  • More sunshine
  • Growing tech scene
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • Smaller arts scene
  • Less vegan options
  • Less robust public transit
  • Desert landscape
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Vibrant arts scene
  • More vegan options
  • Better public transit
  • Lusher green spaces

The transition from Portland's frequent rainfalls to Salt Lake City's dryer climate makes outdoor activities and exploration more frequent year-round. You'll find yourself swapping the lush landscapes of Washington Park for the breathtaking views of Big Cottonwood Canyon. Though you might miss Portland's renowned Farmers Market, Salt Lake City's growing tech scene, bolstered by companies in the Silicon Slopes, offers exciting career opportunities. Dining out will be different; while Portland is known for its vegan cuisine, found in places like Vegan Avenue, Salt Lake City boasts an up-and-coming food scene with gems like The Copper Onion. You'll trade the frequent drizzles and the vibrant arts scene of the Pacific Northwest for sunnier days and an emerging cultural hub in Utah.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City

Food plays a significant role in understanding the local culture and atmosphere of where you're relocating. In this guide, we'll embark on an enlightening journey as we compare the local cuisine between Portland, OR & Salt Lake City, UT , ensuring you have a taste of what culinary delights await in your new home.

PortlandSalt Lake City

Most iconic local food item

Dungeness CrabFry Sauce

Most popular meat dish

Pork BellyUtah Scones (often served with honey butter)

Most popular street food item

Food Carts offering a variety of international cuisinesNavajo Taco

Most popular vegan food

Tempeh ReubenVegan Pho

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Le Pigeon
  • Pok Pok
  • Screen Door
  • Red Iguana
  • The Copper Onion
  • Bambara

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

97

Abundance of Food Trucks

96

Foodie Scene

108

Vegan Friendly

97

In Portland, you'll find a vibrant street food scene with food carts dotting neighborhoods like Hawthorne and Alberta, offering tastes from around the globe. Places like Screen Door are emblematic of the city's love for comforting yet inventive cuisine, highlighting local ingredients. On the other hand, Salt Lake City shines with its unique culinary offerings such as fry sauce and Utah scones, found in local favorites like Red Iguana. The city's food trucks might be fewer, but places like Bambara encapsulate its burgeoning foodie scene and a growing appreciation for diverse, inclusive menus.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City

When relocating, finding the best spots to eat can transform a new city into your home. This comparison aims to ease your move from Portland, OR to Salt Lake City, UT by matching top Portland eateries with their Salt Lake City counterparts. Discover your next favorite dining destinations and make your transition scrumptious.

Le PigeonTable X

Both offer innovative, modern cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients

Pok PokSOMI Vietnamese Bistro

Authentic Southeast Asian flavors with a unique twist

Screen DoorThe Copper Onion

Both are famous for elevating classic American comfort food

TuskLaziz Kitchen

Both emphasize fresh, local produce in their bright and flavorful dishes

Pine State BiscuitsRoots Café

Both are beloved for their hearty breakfast and brunch offerings

Ken's Artisan PizzaSettebello Pizzeria

Artisan pizzas that celebrate the craft of pizza making

Stumptown Coffee RoastersPublik Coffee Roasters

Both coffee shops are pioneers in the third-wave coffee movement

Salt & StrawNormal Ice Cream

Innovative flavors that push the boundaries of traditional ice cream

Nong's Khao Man GaiChannon Thai

Both offer a focused menu perfected over time, showcasing the best of Thai chicken dishes

Apizza SchollsEste Pizzeria

Este provides a taste of New York-style pizza with a commitment to quality ingredients and classic techniques, much like Apizza Scholls

For those missing the signature flavors of Portland's iconic eateries such as Le Pigeon or Pok Pok, Salt Lake City presents enticing alternatives like Table X and SOMI Vietnamese Bistro that promise not just a meal, but a culinary experience. Whether it's the farm-to-table ethos of Le Pigeon finding echoes in Table X's seasonal delicacies, or the intricate Southeast Asian tastes of Pok Pok mirrored in SOMI's vibrant dishes, these establishments ensure that the essence of your favorite flavors is never far away. Exploring these recommendations offers not just familiar comforts but also the excitement of discovering new favorite spots that reflect the diverse and evolving culinary landscape of Salt Lake City.

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Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City

When considering a move, the real estate market is pivotal in deciding on a new place to call home. It's important to compare how Portland, OR , and Salt Lake City, UT stack up in terms of housing cost, architecture, walkability, and more, to make an informed decision.

In diving deeper into the table's insights, Portland's higher median home price reflects its vibrant urban culture and lush greenery, offering residents plenty of parks and recreational areas. The city's architecture proudly showcases Craftsman and Old Portland styles, complementing its rich history. Meanwhile, Salt Lake City's appeal lies in its proximity to natural beauties and outdoor activities, especially for skiing enthusiasts, reflected in real estate listings that frequently highlight mountain views and nearby ski resorts, such as Snowbird and Sundance. Salt Lake City also boasts a slightly more affordable living cost, making it an attractive option for many potential movers.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, UT

1. The Avenues: Known for its quiet streets and proximity to off-leash dog parks like Lindsay Gardens, The Avenues is a top choice for pet owners seeking both community and outdoor space.

2. Sugar House: This neighborhood caters to pet owners with numerous pet-friendly apartments, the expansive Sugar House Park for walks, and various pet-centric businesses, such as grooming and pet supply stores.

3. Liberty Wells: Offering a mix of residential charm and accessibility to several dog parks, including Herman Franks Park, Liberty Wells is ideal for those seeking a pet-friendly community vibe in Salt Lake City.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City

If you're moving from Portland, OR to Salt Lake City, UT , understanding how the weather compares to what you're used to is essential. This comparison will help you prepare for changes in climate and outdoor activity levels, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

Summer icon
81°F / 58°F

Portland, OR

90°F / 67°F

Salt Lake City, UT

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

37°F / 22°F

Salt Lake City, UT

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Portland, OR

20

Salt Lake City, UT

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4

Portland, OR

56

Salt Lake City, UT

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City, you'll experience more sunshine and drier conditions, perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities year-round. However, prepare for colder winters in Salt Lake City with significantly more snow, offering opportunities for winter sports but also requiring adjustments in terms of clothing and transportation. Air quality also varies, being generally better in Portland due to different environmental regulations and geographic locations. Understanding these variations can help you plan for your new environment in Salt Lake City.

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Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City

Moving from one city to another can significantly impact your finances. It's crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and income in Portland stack up against Salt Lake City to make a well-informed decision.

While Portland and Salt Lake City both offer moderately affluent environments, there are notable differences in their economic landscapes. For instance, despite a higher average household income in Portland, its cost of living index and property taxes are also higher, which may lead to more of your income going towards basic expenses. On the other hand, Salt Lake City presents a slightly lower income but with a more affordable cost of living. Note also the striking difference in sales tax—Salt Lake City has a significant sales tax, whereas Portland has none. These details are valuable to consider in the broader context of each city's economic environment, especially if you're weighing the pros and cons of moving.

Political & Religious Comparison between Portland, OR and Salt Lake City, UT

In preparing for your move from Portland, OR to Salt Lake City, UT, a quick overview of the comparison of the politics between Portland & Salt Lake City might prove beneficial. This snapshot aims to give you an understanding of the political and religious makeup of your current and future home.

PortlandSalt Lake City

Political Make-up

LiberalModerately Conservative

Local Politics

Progressive policiesMix of conservative and progressive policies

Religion

Less religiously affiliatedLDS Church influence

When moving from Portland to Salt Lake City, you'll transition from an environment known for its liberal standpoints to one with a moderate conservative leaning, especially influenced by the presence of the LDS Church. The political landscape of Portland favors progressive policies, while Salt Lake City presents a more mixed approach, where conservative values are blended with progressive ones in a unique Utah flavor. This shift is significant, not just politically but also in terms of the religious makeup, moving from a city with a higher number of residents without religious affiliation to one where the LDS Church plays a central role in community activities and culture.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Portland to Salt Lake City

Moving from Portland, OR, to Salt Lake City, UT, it’s essential to better understand the daily commute and traffic, as well as compare the transportation options between Portland & Salt Lake City. This insight will help prepare you for the differences in driving and transiting in your new city.

PortlandSalt Lake City
2622

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

64

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

75

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Yes, but with some limitationsYes, in most areas

Can you get by without car?

In Portland, the average commute time is slightly longer than in Salt Lake City, reflecting the city's denser urban core and higher traffic congestion score. Despite this, Portland offers robust public transit options, making it feasible to live without a car for most city dwellers. The public transit system includes buses, light rail, and streetcars, which connect various neighborhoods efficiently. On the other hand, Salt Lake City, with its lower traffic congestion and shorter average commute times, is also friendly for non-drivers. However, its public transit system, while adequate, doesn't cover the city as extensively as Portland's. This might influence your decision on whether to rely on a car for your daily commute.

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