Best Portland to Vancouver Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Portland to Vancouver Movers

Moving from the quirky, bike-friendly streets of Portland, OR to the serene landscapes of Vancouver, WA is an adventure teeming with new beginnings and exciting prospects. You're swapping the City of Roses for the 'Couv, leaving behind Portland's famed food carts and forested parks for Vancouver's waterfront charm and growing urban vibe. In this transition, the importance of relying on trusted and reliable professional movers can't be overstated—after all, ensuring a smooth move sets the stage for your exciting next chapter. At Great Guys Moving, we take pride in connecting you with the best movers, vetted through our unbiased algorithm, to make your relocation as seamless as possible.

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Best Portland to Vancouver Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
Northwest Grace Moving9.30A+Authorized For HHGContact
Northwest Grace Moving9.30A+Authorized For HHGContact
All Service Moving9.27A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
All Service Moving9.27A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
You Move Me Portland9.27NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Vancouver to Portland guide.

5 Best Portland to Vancouver Moving Companies

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

Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional9.30/10
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
Northwest Grace Moving Logo
Exceptional9.30/10
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
2
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 10/17/2024)

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
3
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 10/17/2024)

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
4
You Move Me Portland Logo
Exceptional9.27/10
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
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. Vancouver Neighborhood Comparison

Moving can be daunting, especially to an unfamiliar city. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of popular neighborhoods between Portland, OR & Vancouver, WA. By leveraging what you already know, you can find a new neighborhood that feels like home.

PortlandVancouverHow They're Similar
Pearl DistrictDowntown VancouverVibrant, urban living
Alberta Arts DistrictUptown VillageEclectic shops, arts scene
Northwest DistrictLincolnHistoric homes, walkable to amenities
Mississippi AveFruit ValleyDiverse, community-focused
Ladd's AdditionShumwayHistoric area, unique landscaping
Rose City ParkCarter ParkFamily-friendly, parks and recreation
Sellwood-MorelandFisher's VillageQuiet, access to nature
HawthorneFisher's Landing EastShopping, dining variety
Sullivan's GulchEsther ShortUrban, park access
EastmorelandFelidaUpscale, spacious homes

Neighborhoods like The Pearl District in Portland and Downtown Vancouver share a vibrant urban living experience with plenty of dining, shopping, and cultural spaces to explore. Just as the Alberta Arts District is known for its bohemian atmosphere and local arts scene, Uptown Village in Vancouver boasts eclectic shops and community art events. Nature lovers moving from neighborhoods like Sellwood-Moreland, characterized by its access to natural beauty and outdoor activities, will find a similar environment in Fisher's Village, which offers quiet living with plenty of green spaces. Whether you fancy the historic charm and walkable streets of Northwest District, or the community-focused vibes of Mississippi Ave, cities like Vancouver mirror these aspects in neighborhoods such as Lincoln and Fruit Valley, ensuring you don't have to compromise on what you love about your current neighborhood while discovering all that your new one has to offer.

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Things to Do in Vancouver

  • Explore Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.
  • Stroll along Vancouver Waterfront Park.
  • Attend summer concerts at Esther Short Park.
  • Visit Pearson Air Museum.
  • Enjoy wine tasting at Maryhill Winery Tasting Room.
  • Take kids to Marshall Community Park.

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Portland to Vancouver

Moving from one place to another always comes with its set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide a balanced perspective on relocating from Portland, OR to Vancouver, WA, highlighting both the advantages and the setbacks. It aims to give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect, helping you make a well-informed decision.

CONs
PROs
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Higher state income tax
  • Dense traffic
  • Higher cost of living
  • Fewer sunny days
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • No state income tax
  • Less traffic congestion
  • More affordable housing
  • Milder climate
Vancouver, WA iconVancouver, WA
  • Smaller cultural scene
  • Fewer dining options
  • Smaller parks
  • Quieter city vibe
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Rich cultural scene
  • Diverse restaurants
  • Lush, green parks
  • Vibrant city life

While Vancouver, WA, might not boast the same bustling cultural scenes as Portland, it offers unique charms of its own. Places like Fort Vancouver National Historic Site provide a glimpse into the area’s rich history. For those seeking serene nature spots, Vancouver is home to Esther Short Park, the oldest public square in the state. Though it might have fewer dining options, establishments like Relevant Coffee are gems that coffee enthusiasts will appreciate. Vancouver meshes the quiet, suburban feel with accessibility to Portland’s vibrant city life, offering the best of both worlds to those who venture north.

Portland vs. Vancouver Food Guide

When relocating, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the local culture and lifestyle aspects of your new home. A significant part of this is understanding the local food scene. In this guide, we'll conduct a comparison of the local cuisine between Portland, OR & Vancouver, WA so you can get a taste of what your culinary life will be like after the move.

PortlandVancouver
Most iconic local food itemVoodoo DoughnutCougar Gold Cheese
Most popular meat dishPork BellySmoked Salmon
Most popular street food itemFood Cart PodsTaco Trucks
Most popular vegan foodJackfruit TacosSeitan Steak
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Le Pigeon
  • Pok Pok
  • Tasty n Alder
  • Beaches Restaurant & Bar
  • The Grant House
  • Warehouse '23
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Portland, you may already be familiar with its vibrant food truck culture, particularly the variety found in food cart pods scattered throughout districts like the Pearl and Alberta. These mobile eateries offer everything from gourmet sandwiches to international cuisines. Meanwhile, Vancouver is known for its fresh seafood, notably smoked salmon, and artisan cheese like Cougar Gold, produced by Washington State University. While Vancouver's foodie scene is emerging, it boasts several unique dining experiences such as those found at Warehouse '23, which offers stunning views of the Columbia River. Both cities cater well to health-conscious and vegan diners, though Portland takes a slight lead with its extensive range of vegan restaurants and options.

Portland vs. Vancouver Restaurant Comparison

When relocating, finding new favorite spots to dine is key to feeling at home. This comparison chart aims to make your transition from Portland, OR to Vancouver, WA a bit tastier. Whether you're seeking high-end experiences, casual bites, or the iconic eateries that define a city's culinary landscape, we've got you covered. Let's help you find the Vancouver equivalent to your Portland favorites.

PortlandVancouverWhat You'll Love
Le PigeonThe Grant HouseFine dining with a historical ambiance, similar in creativity
AndinaJorge's Tequila FactoryLatin flavors with a vibrant atmosphere
Ken’s Artisan PizzaNonavo PizzaHandcrafted pizzas in a lively setting
Screen DoorFront DoorSouthern cuisine with an innovative twist
Nong's Khao Man GaiMighty BowlHealthy bowls with a touch of Asian inspiration
Apizza SchollsTwilight Pizza BistroA haven for pizza aficionados
Voodoo DoughnutDoomsday DonutsCreative, artisanal doughnuts on par with Portland’s icon
Pok PokSawasdeeAuthentic Thai eating experience
Toro BravoTaqueria Mi PuebloSpanish-inspired dishes with a rich flavor profile
Stumptown Coffee RoastersCompass Coffee RoastingFocused on high-quality, artisan coffee

For those who relish in the bustling pizza scene of Portland, transitioning to Nonavo Pizza in Vancouver will be seamless. Here, you'll be met with a commitment to perfection in every slice, reminiscent of Ken’s Artisan Pizza's dedication in Portland. Don't forget about the doughnut dilemma; Voodoo Doughnut fans will find solace in Doomsday Donuts, where the creativity and quality match what you’ve come to love across the river. And for an evening of refined taste, The Grant House offers a dining experience akin to Le Pigeon, featuring dishes crafted with ingenuity and presented in a setting that's both historical and inviting. These Vancouver establishments are not just replacements; they are new favorites waiting to be discovered.

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Ready to start your move?

Portland vs. Vancouver Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences your relocation experience. Understanding how Portland, OR and Vancouver, WA compare in housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle facets is crucial for making an informed decision.

ComparisonPortlandVancouver
Typical Architecture StyleCraftsman, BungalowRanch, Modern
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingProximity to cafes, sustainability featuresFamily-friendly neighborhoods, large backyards

The discrepancy in housing costs between Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA, is notable, especially when considering the median home prices and monthly rent. While both cities offer unique architectural styles, Portland trends towards Craftsman and bungalow styles, reflecting its historic charm, whereas Vancouver leans more towards ranch and modern designs, catering to contemporary tastes and needs. Notably, Portland's higher walkability and bikeability scores echo its vibrant urban lifestyle, closely linked to its dense layout and abundance of amenities. In contrast, Vancouver's real estate listings often highlight aspects appealing to families, like large backyards and community-oriented neighborhoods, indicative of a slightly more subdued, yet equally rich lifestyle.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Vancouver, WA

1. Fisher's Landing East: Known for its extensive walking trails and dog-friendly parks, such as the popular Dogwood Dog Park, Fisher's Landing East is perfect for pets who love to explore outdoors.

2. Lincoln: With its welcoming vibe, Lincoln boasts pet-friendly dining options and the beautiful Esther Short Park, where you can enjoy open spaces and community events with your four-legged friends.

3. Shumway: Close to the heart of Vancouver, Shumway offers easy access to pet services and supplies, including numerous Petco locations, and is a stone's throw away from several pet-friendly cafes and shops.

Portland vs. Vancouver Weather Considerations

If you're pondering a move from Portland, OR to Vancouver, WA, grasping the weather differences is vital. Understand how the climate shifts between these cities to adequately prepare for your relocation. This comparison will illuminate what weather changes to expect, ensuring no surprises as you transition from Portland to Vancouver .

Summer icon
81°F / 59°F

Portland, OR

80°F / 58°F

Vancouver, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

46°F / 35°F

Vancouver, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
36

Portland, OR

38

Vancouver, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
4.3

Portland, OR

4.5

Vancouver, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonPortlandVancouver
Air QualityGoodGood
Natural DisastersFloods, EarthquakesFloods, Earthquakes
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

In moving from Portland to Vancouver, you'll find the climates remarkably similar, with slight variances. Both cities enjoy a mild climate, though Vancouver can be slightly cooler during winter nights. Rainfall is marginally higher in Vancouver, indicating a potential for more wet days annually. An important note is that both cities face similar natural disaster risks, including floods and earthquakes. Understanding these subtle differences ensures you are well-prepared for your new environment, especially if outdoor activities or gardening are significant to your lifestyle.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Portland, OR to Vancouver, WA, it's crucial to grasp how your finances will be influenced. Comparing the cost of living, taxes, and income between Portland and Vancouver will provide a clearer picture of your financial landscape post-move.

ComparisonPortlandVancouver
Avg. Household Income$79,057$69,993
Cost of Living Index111.394.8
State Income Tax9.90
Avg. Property Tax0.90.98
Avg. Sales Tax08.4
Top 3 IndustriesTechnology, Manufacturing, HealthcareTechnology, Retail, Healthcare
AffluenceModerately affluentModerate
PovertyLowerModerate
HomelessnessHighLower

Moving from Portland to Vancouver can significantly impact your wallet, mainly due to the absence of state income tax in Washington State, which could potentially increase your take-home pay. However, it's crucial to balance this against Vancouver's slightly higher average property tax and sales tax rates when budgeting for housing and daily expenses. With both cities boasting strong technology and healthcare industries, your career opportunities remain diverse and promising. Understanding these financial nuances will aid in making an informed decision tailored to your fiscal stability and lifestyle preferences.

Portland vs. Vancouver Political & Religious Comparison

When considering a move from Portland, OR to Vancouver, WA, it's helpful to understand the communities you're transitioning between. This quick guide offers a comparison of the politics and religious makeup between Portland & Vancouver , giving you a glimpse of the general atmosphere in both cities.

PortlandVancouver
Political Make-upLiberalModerately Liberal/Conservative Mix
Local PoliticsProgressive policiesMixed policies
ReligionLess religiously affiliatedHigher religious affiliation

In a deeper dive into the lifestyle differences you might encounter, Portland is known for its staunchly progressive politics and a community that values liberal policies and actions, contributing to its unique cultural scene. This includes strong support for environmental actions and social justice. On the other hand, Vancouver offers a more diverse political landscape, blending liberal and conservative views, which might translate into a more mixed array of local policies and community projects. As for religion, you'll find that Vancouver holds a higher rate of religious affiliation among its residents, reflecting a potentially more traditional community compared to Portland's less religiously affiliated demographics. This contrast could influence local culture, event types, and community support systems available.

Portland vs. Vancouver Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

This comparison focuses on the traffic and transportation options between Portland & Vancouver to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like as you consider moving. Whether you're driving or relying on public transit, knowing the differences can significantly impact your decision.

ComparisonPortlandVancouver
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2522
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?YesIt's challenging

In Portland, thanks to a robust TriMet public transportation system, including buses and the MAX light rail, residents find it easier to get around without a car, scoring high in transit availability. The average commute time is slightly longer compared to Vancouver, which might be due to Portland's higher traffic congestion. In contrast, Vancouver offers less congestion on the roads, leading to shorter average commute times. However, the city's public transit system isn't as extensive as Portland's, which might make it more challenging for those hoping to rely solely on public transportation.

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