Best Salem to Seattle Movers and Practical Moving Guide

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Salem to Seattle Movers

Moving from Salem, the heart of Oregon's cherry land, to bustling Seattle, the Emerald City, represents an exhilarating new chapter in your life. You're transitioning from the Beaver State's laid-back charm to embrace the coffee capital's vibrant urban life and iconic Space Needle. Given this significant leap, it's crucial to entrust your journey to reliable professional movers, ensuring your adventure begins on the right note. With our meticulously curated list of the nation's top movers, we make finding trustworthy partners for your long-distance move straightforward.

Oregon iconArrow iconWashington icon

Best Salem to Seattle Moving Companies

Company NameRating QuestionBBB RatingLicenseContact
John Volken Academy Movers9.34NRAuthorized For HHGContact
Northwest Grace Moving9.30A+Authorized For HHGContact
All Service Moving9.27A+Authorized For Property, HHGContact
People Movers9.16NRAuthorized For PropertyContact
Comfortable Moving9.16A+Authorized For HHGContact
Phone (800) 787-5428
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Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Seattle to Salem guide.

5 Best Salem to Seattle Moving Companies

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

John Volken Academy Movers Logo
Exceptional9.34/10
based on 1,571+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2261169 / 1666977

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans6
Registered Drivers8
Total Annual Miles Moved200 (2015)
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
People Movers Logo
Exceptional9.16/10
based on 3,624+ data points

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

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 10/17/2024)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

2895681 / 1597195

Authorized For Property

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans2
Registered Drivers2
Total Annual Miles Moved25,000 (2023)
View Full Review
4
Comfortable Moving Logo
Exceptional9.16/10
based on 691+ data points

About Comfortable Moving

Comfortable Moving is a family-owned and operated moving business providing residential and commercial moving services since 2017. Based in ...Read More >>

Services

  • Residential Moving
  • Commercial Moving
  • Long-Distance Moving

Interstate Moving License

Circle Check
Authorized for Interstate Moves(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT / MC

Status

Entity Type

3236736 / 1015844

Authorized For HHG

Carrier

Registered Trucks/Vans1
Registered Drivers1
Total Annual Miles Moved14,000 (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.

Salem vs. Seattle Neighborhood Comparison

Looking to move from Salem, OR, to Seattle, WA, but worried about finding a neighborhood that feels like home? Our guide helps you compare local neighborhoods between Salem, OR & Seattle, WA, matching you with areas in the Emerald City that resemble your favorite spots in Salem. Let's make Seattle feel familiar right from the start!

SalemSeattleHow They're Similar
West SalemWest SeattleBoth have strong community vibes and stunning views
South SalemBeacon HillFamily-friendly areas with access to parks and good schools
SunnyslopeBallardBoth offer a blend of residential comfort and trendy eateries
EnglewoodGreenwoodSimilar levels of quiet, suburban feel with local shops
HighlandCapitol HillVibrant nightlife and diverse community offerings
Faye WrightQueen AnneQuiet, family-oriented with scenic views and parks
IllaheMagnoliaUpscale, secluded areas with golf courses and exclusive clubs
GrantFremontArtsy vibe with a mix of urban and family-friendly attractions
MorningsideWallingfordBoth have a balance of residential areas, businesses, and schools
North LancasterRavennaOffers a mix of quiet residential blocks and bustling commercial zones

If you're drawn to the picturesque views and community atmosphere of West Salem, you'll fall in love with West Seattle, where the vistas over Puget Sound rival any landscape painting. For those who cherish the family-oriented and peaceful setting of South Salem, Beacon Hill in Seattle offers not only tranquility but also boasts verdant parks like Jefferson Park, perfect for weekend picnics or leisurely strolls. Those enjoying the vibrant and diverse dining scene in Sunnyslope will find a similar foodie paradise in Ballard, where venues like The Ballard Cut and Reuben’s Brews invite locals and visitors alike to savor unique flavors. Meanwhile, Capitol Hill, matching Salem's Highland area, entices with not just nightlife but also cultural gems like the Seattle Asian Art Museum, making it a hotspot for both entertainment and art enthusiasts.

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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 Salem to Seattle

Moving from one city to another can be a complex decision, filled with various factors to consider. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of Salem, OR to Seattle, WA relocation , comparing the good and the bad through informative charts. Whether it’s the change in weather, the job market, or lifestyle differences, you'll find straightforward insights here.

CONs
PROs
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Smaller job market
  • Less cultural events
  • Fewer restaurants
  • Lesser known schools
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Larger job market
  • More cultural events
  • More diverse dining options
  • Prestigious universities
Seattle, WA iconSeattle, WA
  • Higher cost of living
  • More traffic
  • Expensive housing market
  • City hustle and bustle
Salem, OR iconSalem, OR
  • Lower cost of living
  • Less traffic
  • More affordable housing
  • Quaint community vibe

While Salem might offer a more laid-back lifestyle with its quaint community vibe and affordable living, Seattle boasts an array of cultural and social opportunities that are hard to find elsewhere. You'll move from the limited dining options in Salem to Seattle's vibrant food scene, featuring places like Pike Place Market and popular restaurants like Canlis. Though Seattle's cost of living and traffic might be higher, the city's world-renowned universities, like the University of Washington, and its diverse job market promise a dynamic lifestyle enriched with opportunities. Whether it's exploring the historic Seattle neighborhoods, enjoying the bustling waterfront, or taking advantage of the city's rich cultural calendar, the move opens up a plethora of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Salem vs. Seattle Food Guide

Understanding the food culture of a place is crucial when considering a move. Food is a vital part of the local culture and contributes significantly to the lifestyle in an area. Through this guide, we aim to compare the local cuisine between Salem & Seattle , so you can be better informed about the food scene where you're moving to.

SalemSeattle
Most iconic local food itemMarionberry PieSalmon
Most popular meat dishPork RibsTeriyaki Chicken
Most popular street food itemFood Truck TacosHot Dogs
Most popular vegan foodTempeh BowlQuinoa Salad
Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city
  • Word of Mouth Bistro
  • Busick Court Restaurant
  • Anderson's Tribute Center
  • Canlis
  • Rover's (Closed)
  • The Herbfarm
Fitness/Health Conscientiousness💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪
Abundance of Food Trucks🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚
Foodie Scene🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴
Vegan Friendly🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱

In Seattle, you're moving into a city with a rich culinary landscape, where health and fitness are a priority as reflected in their food options. The iconic Salmon dish can be savored in waterfront restaurants scattered throughout neighborhoods like Ballard and Pike Place Market. With a stronger vegan presence, Seattle boasts a variety of establishments like 'Plum Bistro' in Capitol Hill, showcasing a progressive vegan scene. The city's vibrant foodie culture is also evident in its diverse food truck scene, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to taste, from international cuisines to new takes on American classics.

Salem vs. Seattle Restaurant Comparison

As you embark on your journey from Salem, OR, to Seattle, WA, finding your culinary comforts in a new city is paramount. Food serves as a cornerstone for making anywhere feel like home. This restaurant comparison will help you in transitioning your gastronomic delights from Salem to Seattle, connecting you with new favorite spots that mirror your old haunts.

SalemSeattleWhat You'll Love
Word of Mouth BistroThe Fat Hencozy breakfast with a similar community vibe
DaVinci RistoranteIl Terrazzo Carmineauthentic Italian cuisine, upscale ambiance
Bentley's GrillMetropolitan Grillclassic steakhouse with a sophisticated touch
ACME CafeGlo'scasual diner with comfort food staples
Busick Court RestaurantThe 5 Point Caféiconic diner known for generous portions
Rudy's SteakhouseCanlisfine dining with exceptional steak and seafood
Ike BoxCaffe Vitacoffeehouse with a strong local following
Amadeus CafeCafe Florainventive vegetarian cuisine in a cozy setting
Mina's CafePettirosso Cafe & Barcasual atmosphere, diverse menu
Marco Polo Global RestaurantSpice Waalastreet food inspired dishes with global flavors

In your culinary explorations, discovering places that evoke the familiar while offering new experiences is key. At Canlis in Seattle, you'll find that the marriage of ambiance, impeccable service, and cuisine elevates the steakhouse experience, harkening back to the fond memories of Rudy's Steakhouse in Salem but with a unique Seattle twist. For those mornings when nothing but a hearty, feel-good breakfast will do, The Fat Hen offers a cozy, neighborhood vibe reminiscent of Word of Mouth Bistro, known for their benedicts and baked eggs, ensuring a seamless transition from your Salem morning routines. And when you're in search of that perfect cup of coffee paired with a community atmosphere, Caffe Vita stands as Seattle's answer to Ike Box, serving not just coffee but connectivity within the community.

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Ready to start your move?

Salem vs. Seattle Real Estate & Living Facts

Real estate significantly influences the decision to move, making it crucial to understand how Salem, OR and Seattle, WA compare. This comparison aims to highlight key housing aspects such as cost, architecture, and lifestyle to help inform your decision.

ComparisonSalemSeattle
Typical Architecture StyleModern and RanchCraftsman and Contemporary
Walkability 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟
Bikeability 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲
Urban Lifestyle 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️
Most popular items mentioned in real estate listingSpacious backyards, proximity to parksViews of Puget Sound, downtown access

When comparing Salem and Seattle, it's evident that the lifestyle and housing costs differ significantly. In Salem, homes are more affordable, and listings often highlight spacious backyards and closeness to parks, underlining a community-oriented, suburban feel. On the other hand, Seattle, with its higher living costs, emphasizes its vibrant urban lifestyle, showcasing properties with stunning views of Puget Sound and easy access to the bustling downtown area. Seattle's greater walkability and bikeability scores also reflect its urban density and the emphasis on sustainable city living. Choosing between these cities depends on your preference for an urban vs. suburban lifestyle and how much you're willing to invest in your living situation.

Pet-friendly neighborhoods background image

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.

Salem vs. Seattle Weather Considerations

When planning a move, understanding how the weather in your new city compares to what you're accustomed to is vital. This guide offers a detailed comparison of climatic conditions between Salem, OR, and Seattle, WA, highlighting weather specifics to prepare you for the transition.

Summer icon
82°F / 52°F

Salem, OR

75°F / 55°F

Seattle, WA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
47°F / 33°F

Salem, OR

47°F / 37°F

Seattle, WA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
39"

Salem, OR

37"

Seattle, WA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
6"

Salem, OR

5"

Seattle, WA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

ComparisonSalemSeattle
Air QualityGoodModerate
Natural DisastersEarthquakes, FloodsEarthquakes, Landslides
Days of Sunshine per Year☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Avg. UV Index🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️
Avg. Annual Humidity💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦

While both Salem and Seattle share similar weather patterns, being in the Pacific Northwest, there are subtle differences that could affect your daily life. Salem experiences slightly warmer summers but also colder winters than Seattle, which could mean adjusting your wardrobe for the seasons. The number of sunny days is comparable, though Seattle enjoys a bit more sunshine annually. Paying attention to the natural disaster potential of each area is also essential, with Salem being more prone to floods and Seattle to landslides. If allergies are a concern, the predominant allergens differ between the two cities, possibly affecting seasonal allergy sufferers differently.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salem to Seattle

When planning a move from Salem, OR to Seattle, WA, it's crucial to understand how the cost of living and financial landscape will change. This comparison will give you a clear picture of what to expect financially in your new city, detailing key economic indicators such as average income and taxes. Salem to Seattle transitions represent not just a change of scenery, but potentially a significant shift in your economic environment.

ComparisonSalemSeattle
Avg. Household Income$63,927$110,781
Cost of Living Index110.55121.4
State Income Tax9.9%9.9%
Avg. Property Tax1.18%0.99%
Avg. Sales Tax0%10.1%
Top 3 IndustriesGovernment, Education, HealthcareTechnology, Aerospace, Healthcare
AffluenceModerateHigh
PovertyModerateLower
HomelessnessHighVery High

Moving from Salem to Seattle, you'll notice a higher cost of living, particularly in housing and everyday expenses, reflected in the significant difference in the cost of living index. Despite both cities being in the same state and thereby sharing the state income tax rate, the average sales tax in Seattle is considerably higher due to local taxes. However, this is balanced by a higher average household income and a vibrant job market, mainly fueled by the technology and aerospace industries. The shift in economic circumstances also implies differences in the affordability and availability of housing, influencing levels of homelessness and poverty. Understanding these dynamics can help you better prepare for your financial life in Seattle.

Salem vs. Seattle Political & Religious Comparison

When planning your move from Salem, OR to Seattle, WA, understanding the community you'll be joining is crucial. This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Salem & Seattle, offering insights that might influence your decision.

SalemSeattle
Political Make-upLean DemocraticStrongly Democratic
Local PoliticsModerateProgressive
ReligionMixed, with a notable Christian community. Your ChurchDiverse, less religious overall. Your Temple

The political and religious landscapes of Salem and Seattle offer distinct atmospheres. Salem exhibits a balanced political environment, skewing slightly Democratic, with a diverse religious community that includes a prominent Christian presence. Seattle, on the other hand, is known for its strong Democratic leanings and a significantly progressive stance on local issues. You'll find that Seattle hosts a wide array of religious beliefs but is generally considered less religiously active compared to Salem. This could impact your social interactions and community involvement, reflecting the cities' contrasting cultural climates.

Salem vs. Seattle Traffic and Public Transit Considerations

Understanding the differences in traffic and transportation options between Salem and Seattle will help you better prepare for your daily commute and manage your time effectively. This comparison aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect when moving from Salem to Seattle.

ComparisonSalemSeattle
Avg Commute Time (in minutes)2328
Traffic Congestion 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦
Availability of Public Transit 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇
Can you get by without car?ChallengingEasier

While Salem offers a relatively smooth commuting experience with an average commute time of 23 minutes and lower traffic congestion, Seattle's vibrant urban landscape ups the ante with better public transit options. In Seattle, the average commute time extends slightly to 28 minutes, but the city compensates with a robust public transit system, scoring 9 out of 10, making it feasible to get by without a car. This contrast highlights the necessity to adapt to Seattle’s dynamic environment, leveraging transit services like the King County Metro and the Sound Transit for efficient daily navigation.

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