Moving from Salt Lake City to Portland?

5 Best Movers and Your Ultimate Moving Guide

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Salt Lake City to Portland Movers

Moving from the bustling, mountain-framed streets of Salt Lake City to Portland's verdant, cafe-speckled landscapes promises an exciting chapter in your life. You're trading the 'Crossroads of the West' for 'Stumptown', leaving behind the arid clime for a place draped in endless greenery and rain. In navigating this thrilling transition, remember the importance of having trusted and reliable professional movers on your side — our meticulous ranking algorithm at Great Guys Moving ensures you're matched with the best, making your long journey as smooth as the Willamette River itself.

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

5 Best Salt Lake City to Portland 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
You Move Me Salt Lake City Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,566+ data points

Woods Cross, UT
Local Moving Services, Long-Distance Moving Services, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 1/25/2024)

USDOT: 3820939 Verify

About You Move Me Salt Lake City

You Move Me Salt Lake City is a top-rated local moving company offering a wide range of services such as packing, moving, and providing movi...Read More >>

top 10 salt lake city 2024 you move me salt lake city image
top 10 ranked movers in riverdale 2023 you move me salt lake city image

Relocating from Salt Lake City to Portland Neighborhood Guide

Moving to a new city can feel like stepping into another world, but finding a slice of familiarity in an unknown place can make the transition smoother. With this in mind, we have drawn a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Salt Lake City, UT & Portland, OR to help you find your footing by using what you know as a guide. Discover which neighborhoods mirror those you've grown to love.

Salt Lake CityPortland
The AvenuesNob Hill

Historic homes, walkable

Sugar HouseHawthorne

Eclectic, vibrant shopping

9th & 9thAlberta Arts District

Artsy, unique local businesses

Downtown SLCPearl District

Urban, upscale dining

Capitol HillSellwood

Quiet, historic charm

Liberty WellsMississippi

Progressive, community-focused

BallparkBuckman

Hip, close to action

Harvard-YaleIrvington

Affluent, picturesque streets

FoothillLaurelhurst

Lush, family-friendly

East BenchAlameda

Exclusive, breathtaking views

Exploring neighborhoods like Hawthorne in Portland will remind you of Sugar House's vibrant shopping and eclectic eateries, such as the renowned Salt & Straw for an unforgettable ice cream experience. The Alberta Arts District, with its artsy vibe and unique local businesses, mirrors 9th & 9th's flourishing creative scene, complete with coffee shops and galleries reminiscent of Caffé d’bolla. For those drawn to the urban sophistication and upscale dining of Downtown SLC, the Pearl District offers an array of high-end restaurants and bars, like the celebrated Andina Restaurant, that rival any found in Salt Lake City. Each neighborhood, whether in Salt Lake City or Portland, boasts its own character, from the historic homes lining the streets of Nob Hill to the progressive, community-focused atmosphere found in Mississippi, ensuring you'll find a new place to call home while cherishing what you loved about your old one.

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Things to Do in Portland

  • Hike in Forest Park
  • Stroll through Portland Japanese Garden
  • Enjoy food carts at various locations
  • Visit the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry
  • Explore Powell's City of Books
  • Sample brews on a craft brewery tour
  • Watch a movie at Cinema 21

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Pros and Cons of Moving from Salt Lake City to Portland

Moving can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it involves relocating from one city to another with distinct lifestyles. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of moving from Salt Lake City, UT to Portland, OR. Through comparative charts, we highlight the contrasts and benefits to help you make an informed decision about your relocation.

CONs
PROs
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • Less diversity
  • Harsh winters
  • Drier climate
  • More conservative
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • More diversity
  • Mild winters
  • Lush greenery
  • More progressive
Portland, OR iconPortland, OR
  • Higher rainfall
  • Higher cost of living
  • Competitive job market
  • Less sunny days
Salt Lake City, UT iconSalt Lake City, UT
  • Outdoor activities
  • Lower cost of living
  • Strong job market
  • Breathtaking landscapes

When considering a move from Salt Lake City to Portland, it’s worth noting the lifestyle changes that come with it. Portland boasts an array of lush, green parks such as Washington Park and Forest Park, offering residents a chance to immerse themselves in nature despite the city's frequent rainfall. Additionally, Portland's celebrated culinary scene, featuring spots like Pok Pok for Thai cuisine, highlights its diversity and progressive values. However, it's important to prepare for Portland's higher cost of living and competitive job market, which can be a significant adjustment from Salt Lake City's relatively lower living costs and strong job market amidst its breathtaking landscapes.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Salt Lake City to Portland

Food is an essential aspect of local culture and can significantly influence what it's like to live in an area. For those considering a move, understanding the culinary landscape is crucial. Hence, we're providing a detailed comparison of the local cuisine between Salt Lake City & Portland so you can be better informed about the food scene in your new home.

Salt Lake CityPortland

Most iconic local food item

Fry sauceDoughnuts

Most popular meat dish

Utah sconesBrisket

Most popular street food item

TacosFood Cart Pods

Most popular vegan food

Avocado toastTofu scramble

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

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

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

79

In Salt Lake City, you'll find that restaurants like Red Iguana highlight the city's love for unique and authentic flavors, often focusing on Mexican cuisine, while Portland's food scene, represented by places like Pok Pok, is known for its international diversity, particularly its Asian influences. Portland's renowned food cart pods, such as those in the Hawthorne district, offer an eclectic mix of street food items ranging from artisanal doughnuts to globally inspired meals, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences, including an abundance of vegan options. This comparison suggests that Portland might offer a more varied and globally inspired dining experience, with a higher emphasis on health consciousness and vegan-friendly options.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Salt Lake City to Portland

When moving from Salt Lake City to Portland, food plays a crucial role in making a new city feel like home. This restaurant comparison Salt Lake City to Portland chart will help you find your new favorite spots, easing the transition and tantalizing your taste buds with familiar and new flavors.

Red IguanaNuestra Cocina

Offers authentic Mexican cuisine, similar atmosphere

Valter's OsteriaIl Terrazzo

Classic Italian dining, using fresh local ingredients

HSLTusk

Creative, seasonal dishes that emphasize local sourcing

The Copper OnionLe Pigeon

Innovative American fare, cozy and upscale dining experience

Log HavenCanard

A unique blend of fine dining and casual comfort, with inventive menus

Lucky 13Killer Burger

Known for juicy burgers and a relaxed vibe, very comparable

Settebello PizzeriaApizza Scholls

High-quality ingredients on traditional pies, expertly prepared

PagoBeast

Focus on local, sustainable food in a cozy, upscale setting

Bruges Waffles & FritesThe Waffle Window

Delicious waffles with a Portland twist, equally beloved

MazzaNicholas Restaurant

Offers a wide variety of Middle Eastern cuisine, similar vibe

Exploring the dining scenes in a new city can be an exciting adventure, and Portland's options are as eclectic as they come. For those missing the intimate Italian experience of Valter's Osteria from Salt Lake City, Il Terrazzo in Portland will warm you with its classically inspired dishes and locally sourced ingredients. If it's the inventive American cuisine of The Copper Onion that tingles your taste buds, Le Pigeon in Portland offers an exquisite fusion of American and French dishes that pushes culinary boundaries. And for the burger enthusiasts, transitioning from Lucky 13's towering burgers to Killer Burger's juicy offerings will not disappoint, ensuring that every craving is met with quality and creativity. Portland’s culinary scene mirrors the vibrant flavors and character found in Salt Lake City’s finest, providing a seamless transition for your palate.

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Ready to start your move?

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

When planning a move, comparing real estate between your current city and your future home is crucial. Understanding the differences in housing costs and amenities between Salt Lake City, UT and Portland, OR will help you make an informed decision.

Moving from Salt Lake City to Portland brings noticeable changes in housing and lifestyle. With Portland's higher median home prices and rent, the city compensates with better walkability and bikeability scores, making it easier for you to get around without a car. The architecture in Portland is rich with Victorian and Craftsman styles, offering a distinct aesthetic difference from Salt Lake City’s Prairie and Craftsman homes. Moreover, Portland's emphasis on eco-friendly features and access to public transit in real estate listings emphasizes the city’s commitment to sustainability and urban living, contrasting with Salt Lake City's focus on proximity to outdoor activities and spacious layouts.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, OR

1.  Pearl District : Known for its modern, upscale vibe, the Pearl District is pet-friendly thanks to its numerous pet stores, dog-friendly restaurants, and the Fields Park, a popular spot for dog owners.

2.  Northwest District : This neighborhood offers easy access to Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the US, with numerous trails for you and your pet to explore, plus a variety of pet-friendly cafes and bars.

3.  Sellwood-Moreland : With a more laid-back, residential feel, Sellwood-Moreland is great for pets due to its welcoming community, several parks, and the Sellwood Riverfront Park which provides a great space for dogs to play and swim.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Salt Lake City to Portland

When planning a move from Salt Lake City, UT to Portland, OR, considering the weather differences is crucial to prepare adequately. This comparison aims to highlight how the weather varies between Salt Lake City and Portland, covering aspects from average temperatures and sunshine days to natural disasters and air quality. Understanding these differences will help you adjust your expectations and lifestyle to your new environment.

Summer icon
90°F / 70°F

Salt Lake City, UT

80°F / 58°F

Portland, OR

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
37°F / 22°F

Salt Lake City, UT

47°F / 36°F

Portland, OR

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
16.1

Salt Lake City, UT

36

Portland, OR

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
56.2

Salt Lake City, UT

4.3

Portland, OR

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

Moving from Salt Lake City to Portland will bring noticeable changes in weather, especially in terms of humidity, sunshine, and precipitation. You'll experience cooler summers and milder winters in Portland, with a significant increase in rainy days contributing to its lush greenery. The difference in annual sunshine hours is also pronounced, with Salt Lake City boasting about 78 more sunny days than Portland. For those sensitive to air quality and seasonal allergies, both cities experience issues with pollen and mold, but the higher humidity in Portland might require adjustments in your daily life and household maintenance to mitigate mold growth and manage allergy symptoms.

Ready to start your move?

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

When considering a move from Salt Lake City to Portland, it’s crucial to understand how the cost of living, taxes, and economic health will impact your finances. This comparison will highlight key financial differences and similarities between the two cities, providing a clear perspective on what to expect.

While both Salt Lake City and Portland boast average household incomes around the $70,000 mark, the cost of living in Portland is notably higher. This is compounded by Oregon's higher state income tax rate of 9.9%, nearly double that of Utah's 4.95%. However, Portland offers a unique advantage with its 0% sales tax, which could offer some financial relief in day-to-day expenses. Both cities share moderate poverty levels, but Portland struggles more visibly with homelessness. Despite these challenges, Portland's affluence is described as "prosperous," supported by robust technology, manufacturing, and healthcare industries.

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

Moving from Salt Lake City, UT to Portland, OR can be a cultural shift, especially when considering the comparison of the politics between Salt Lake City & Portland and the religious landscape. This quick glance is designed to give you a snapshot of what to expect from your new neighbors and the local community's makeup.

Salt Lake CityPortland

Political Make-up

Mixed, with conservative leaningsLiberal/Progressive

Local Politics

Moderate with a strong presence of the Republican partyVery progressive with dominant Democratic control

Religion

High percentage of Latter-Day Saints (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) membersMore religiously unaffiliated and diverse faith communities

When you move from Salt Lake City to Portland, you'll notice a significant difference in the political and religious atmosphere. Salt Lake City, with its substantial LDS community, brings a unique cultural element that influences local politics and daily life. In contrast, Portland's residents often pride themselves on their progressive values and diversity, leading to a more liberal local governance. The shift from a city with a strong Republican presence to one that is a stronghold for the Democratic Party might come as a significant change. Moreover, the religious landscape in Portland is markedly different, with higher percentages of people identifying as non-religious or part of various faiths, offering a wide range of cultural and social perspectives.

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

Are you considering moving from Salt Lake City, UT, to Portland, OR? Understanding the daily commute and traffic is essential. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Salt Lake City & Portland will help you better navigate your new city life, ensuring you make informed decisions about your daily travel.

Salt Lake CityPortland
2226

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

46

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

68

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

Possible, but challengingYes, easier than SLC

Can you get by without car?

In comparing Salt Lake City and Portland, you'll find subtle but significant differences. Salt Lake City has a relatively lower average commute time and less traffic congestion, making driving somewhat stress-free. However, Portland excels in public transit options, including buses, the MAX Light Rail, and streetcars, offering a more comprehensive and convenient system which makes it easier to live without a personal vehicle. Additionally, Portland's higher traffic congestion score reflects its denser urban environment, which is somewhat mitigated by its effective public transit system.

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