Best Portland to Seattle Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the quirky vibe of Portland, OR, to the bustling tech hub of Seattle, WA, marks an exciting new chapter in your life. You’re trading the Rose City’s laid-back atmosphere and artisan coffee shops for the Emerald City’s iconic Space Needle and its booming start-up culture. Given the distance and the treasures you're carrying, it's crucial to hire trusted and reliable professional movers. We at Great Guys Moving take pride in connecting you with the best, using an unbiased algorithm to ensure your move is as smooth as the Puget Sound on a calm day.
Best Portland to Seattle Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Volken Academy Movers | 9.34 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Northwest Grace Moving | 9.30 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| All Service Moving | 9.27 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| You Move Me Portland | 9.27 | NR | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| People Movers | 9.16 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Portland guide.
5 Best Portland to Seattle Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About John Volken Academy Movers
John Volken Academy Movers is a not-for-profit moving company that helps people move across Western and Eastern Washington. This local busin...Read More >>
Services
- Local Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Residential Moving
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
About People Movers
People Movers is a fully licensed moving company in Bothell, WA. It has relocated hundreds of happy customers in Greater Seattle since it op...Read More >>
Services
- Local moving
- Long-distance moving
- Cross-country moving
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. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison
Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not familiar with the local neighborhoods. To help you bridge this gap, we've crafted a comparison between Portland, OR & Seattle, WA neighborhoods . Using this guide, you'll find the Seattle neighborhoods that best match your favorite spots back in Portland, easing your transition and helping you feel right at home in no time.
| Portland | Seattle | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl District | Belltown | Bustling, artistic vibe |
| Alberta Arts District | Fremont | Eclectic, arts-focused community |
| Nob Hill | Queen Anne | Historic homes, upscale dining |
| Laurelhurst | Wallingford | Family-friendly, lake views |
| Mississippi Avenue | Ballard | Hip, with a vibrant nightlife |
| Hawthorne | Capitol Hill | Alternative, with a young energy |
| Eastmoreland | Madrona | Peaceful, tree-lined streets |
| Sellwood | West Seattle | Laid-back, beachfront leisure |
| North Williams | Greenwood | Growing, with a strong community feel |
| Downtown | Downtown | Urban core, shopping, and entertainment |
In comparing the vibrant and artistic Pearl District of Portland with Seattle's Belltown, you'll find both neighborhoods offer an energetic atmosphere brimming with art galleries, trendy boutiques, and bustling eateries, such as the iconic Heart Coffee in Portland and Local 360 in Seattle. Similarly, if you're drawn to the historic and serene vibe of Nob Hill, you'll appreciate Queen Anne's grandiose homes and fine dining experiences that include places like Canlis, overlooking Lake Union. For those who adore the eclectic and community-focused environment of Mississippi Avenue, Ballard's thriving nightlife and collection of bars and restaurants, including The Walrus and the Carpenter, make it a perfect match in Seattle. Each of these neighborhoods embodies unique facets of their city's culture, providing a seamless blending of familiar comforts with exciting new discoveries.
Things to Do in Seattle
Visit the Space Needle for iconic city views.- Explore Pike Place Market's unique shops.
- Relax at Green Lake Park.
- Discover art at Seattle Art Museum.
- Enjoy a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island.
- Watch a Mariners baseball game at T-Mobile Park.
- Hike in Mount Rainier National Park.
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Seattle
Moving from one city to another offers a unique set of challenges and rewards, and understanding these can help make the transition smoother. This comparison aims to provide a balanced look at what moving from Portland, OR to Seattle, WA entails . By examining both the pros and cons, you can prepare for the changes ahead and embrace the new opportunities that Seattle has to offer.
Portland, OR- Smaller tech scene
- Fewer global cuisines
- Lower skyscrapers
- Less public transit options
- Smaller parks
Seattle, WA- Larger tech hub
- More diverse food scene
- Taller skyline
- Better public transit
- Larger parks
Seattle, WA- Wetter weather
- Higher cost of living
- More urban
- Fewer indie stores
- Less microbrew variety
Portland, OR- Milder summers
- More affordable
- Cozy community feel
- Quirky local shops
- Diverse microbreweries
Moving from Portland to Seattle brings about a notable transition, from Portland's cozy, community-focused atmosphere to Seattle's vibrant, bustling city life. In Seattle, you'll find iconic locations like the Space Needle, alongside expansive parks such as the Discovery Park, offering vast green spaces unheard of in Portland. The food scene in Seattle is a foodie's delight, with places like Pike Place Market that serve up a dizzying array of global cuisines and fresh seafood, vastly broadening your dining options. Though you might miss the indie shops and microbreweries that give Portland its unique character, Seattle's tech boom presents burgeoning opportunities and dynamic cultural experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. Embracing these changes can make your new city feel like home.
Portland vs. Seattle Food Guide
This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland, OR & Seattle, WA, focusing on what makes each location's food scene distinctive. By examining these culinary landscapes, you can gain insight into the unique flavors and dining experiences of your new home, enhancing your relocation journey.
| Portland | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Voodoo Doughnut | Pike Place Chowder |
| Most popular meat dish | Pork Belly Cubano | Salmon |
| Most popular street food item | Food Cart Pods | Hot Dogs |
| Most popular vegan food | Tofu Scramble | Seitan Wings |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
Portland is celebrated for its food cart pods, offering a variety of cuisines and famed dishes like the Voodoo Doughnut, a quirky twist on a classic treat. The city’s culinary scene is robust, with notable spots like Pok Pok in the Southeast for authentic Thai cuisine and Screen Door for Southern comfort food. On the other hand, Seattle boasts its seafood, especially salmon dishes served across venues from high-end spots like Canlis to casual settings at Pike Place Market. Both cities have a high health conscientiousness with a plethora of vegan options, but Portland edges slightly ahead with its vegan-friendly establishments. Whether you’re craving an innovative vegan meal or a classic seafood dish, both cities cater to a variety of palates and dietary needs.
Portland vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison
Relocating can stir a craving for familiar comforts, especially when it comes to food. This Portland to Seattle restaurant comparison guide is designed to ease the transition, helping you explore new dining destinations that echo your cherished Portland favorites. Whether you seek splurges, budget bites, or distinctive flavors, this guide serves as your culinary compass in making Seattle feel like home.
| Portland | Seattle | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Le Pigeon | Canlis | Upscale dining experience with a focus on innovative dishes |
| Nong's Khao Man Gai | Little Uncle | Authentic and homely Thai food with a standout chicken rice |
| Screen Door | The Wandering Goose | Southern comfort food that brings the heart of the south to the northwest |
| Pok Pok | Soi | Offers a similar bold, Thai street food-inspired menu |
| Tasty n Daughters | Toulouse Petit | Known for its brunch and comfort cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere |
| Ken's Artisan Pizza | Delancey | Wood-fired pizzas that prioritize quality ingredients and artisanal techniques |
| Salt & Straw | Molly Moon's Homemade Ice Cream | Innovative and eclectic ice cream flavors |
| Luc Lac Kitchen | Monsoon | Modern take on Vietnamese cuisine, focusing on fresh ingredients |
| Apizza Scholls | Ballard Pizza Company | Both focus on high-quality, traditional pizzas |
| Pine State Biscuits | Biscuit Bitch | Both offer a rich biscuits and gravy experience for breakfast and brunch enthusiasts |
For those who relish in the culinary journey from Portland's Le Pigeon to Seattle's Canlis, both establishments promise an upscale dining experience with an innovative twist on classic dishes. Fans of vibrant, authentic Thai flavors transitioning from Portland's Pok Pok will find solace in Soi's similarly bold, street food-inspired dishes. Pizza aficionados moving from Ken's Artisan Pizza to Seattle's Delancey will appreciate the unwavering commitment to quality ingredients and wood-fired technique. Not to forget, ice cream enthusiasts will see a parallel between Salt & Straw and Molly Moon's Innovative and eclectic flavors, ensuring the sweet tooth in you will feel right at home in Seattle. Each Seattle restaurant not only matches its Portland counterpart in culinary ethos but also in the unique dining experience it offers, ensuring a seamless transition for your taste buds.
Ready to start your move?
Portland vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts
When considering a move, contrasting the real estate markets of Portland, OR, and Seattle, WA, becomes imperative. Understanding differences in housing costs, architecture, and urban lifestyle can greatly influence your decision. Let's dive into how these two cities compare in these aspects.
| Comparison | Portland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman | Modern and Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Eco-friendly features, Proximity to parks | Water views, Tech-friendly homes |
While both Portland and Seattle are heralded for their unique culture and beautiful architecture, there are distinct differences in living conditions, which could sway your decision. The median home price and rent in Seattle are significantly higher, a reflection of its vibrant job market, particularly in tech. However, Portland offers its own charm with a slightly more affordable living, focus on eco-friendly living, and an abundance of parks, which is a frequently mentioned perk in real estate listings. Meanwhile, Seattle's urban lifestyle scores higher, thanks to its bustling city life and scenic water views, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more dynamic urban experience. Whether it's Portland's craftsman homes and bike-friendly streets or Seattle's modern waterfront properties and tech hubs, your preference will ultimately shape your choice.
Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Seattle, WA
1. Ballard: With its numerous off-leash dog parks, Ballard is ideal for your furry friends to run free and socialize.
2. Green Lake: Known for the pet-friendly Green Lake Park, you and your pet will enjoy the scenic 2.8-mile trail and ample green space for play.
3. Queen Anne: This neighborhood is packed with pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus it offers easy access to Kinnear Park's off-leash area, making it a perfect spot for pet owners.
Portland vs. Seattle Weather Considerations
Moving from one city to another requires understanding the changes in weather you'll experience. This comparison between Portland, OR, and Seattle, WA will illuminate how the climates differ, helping you adjust smoothly to your new environment.
Portland, OR
Seattle, WA
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Seattle, WA
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Portland, OR
Seattle, WA
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Portland, OR
Seattle, WA
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Portland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Floods, Earthquakes | Earthquakes, Volcanoes |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
When moving from Portland to Seattle, you'll notice slight differences in weather. Both cities enjoy similar summer temperatures, but Seattle offers a bit more sunlight annually. The humidity in Seattle is somewhat lower, which might be more comfortable for some. Despite the close proximity of these two cities, Seattle experiences slightly higher rainfall, contributing to its lush landscapes. Both cities share common allergen sources, but the air quality could vary, with Portland generally providing clearer skies. Understanding these nuances can help you better prepare for the seasonal shifts in your new home.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Portland to Seattle
When considering a move from Portland, OR to Seattle, WA, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape will change. This comparison will give you an insight into what you can expect in terms of money and finance in your new home.
| Comparison | Portland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $79,057 | $110,781 |
| Cost of Living Index | 111.3 | 121.4 |
| State Income Tax | 9.9 | 0 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.9 | 1.1 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 0 | 10.1 |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare | Technology, Retail, Aerospace |
| Affluence | Moderate | High |
| Poverty | Moderate | Low |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
While both Portland and Seattle boast strong economies with technology leading their top industries, Seattle shows a higher average household income that reflects its more affluent status. However, this comes with a significantly higher cost of living, primarily due to housing costs and the higher sales tax. In contrast, Portland residents benefit from no sales tax but face a high state income tax rate. It's important to consider these financial aspects carefully, as they will impact your day-to-day expenses and overall budget in your new city.
Portland vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison
This brief section aims to offer a quick comparison of the politics between Portland & Seattle , highlighting political and religious affiliations of their residents. Discover at a glance how your current city compares with your future home.
| Portland | Seattle | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, strong environmental focus | Progressive, with an emphasis on sustainability and equity |
| Religion | Less religiously affiliated | Less religiously affiliated |
Moving from Portland to Seattle, you'll find yourself in a familiar political climate, as both cities are known for their liberal views and progressive policies. However, Seattle places a strong emphasize on sustainability and equity, which is reflected in its local politics. Both cities have a lower rate of religious affiliation compared to the national average, attributing to a diverse culture that is less influenced by religious groups. This shared aspect further enhances the cultural ties between Portland and Seattle, making the transition smoother for you.
Portland vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Understanding the differences between driving and transiting in Portland & Seattle is essential for anyone planning to move and adapt to their new city. This comparison aims to better understand what the daily commute and traffic are like, helping you make informed decisions about your mode of transport.
| Comparison | Portland | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 25 | 28 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Yes, with some effort | Yes, easily |
The table reflects key differences in commute times, congestion, and public transit availability between Portland and Seattle. While both cities offer robust public transit options, Seattle scores slightly higher, making it easier to live without a car. Seattle's higher traffic congestion score might contribute to the longer average commute time, suggesting more people are using the roads. The slight edge in public transit availability in Seattle could be a contributing factor to its ability to accommodate residents without a car more efficiently. This comparison suggests that if you're looking to reduce your reliance on a car, Seattle might offer a more conducive environment.
Popular Portland, OR to Washington Moving Routes
