Best Seattle to Portland Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from the Emerald City to the City of Roses is not just a relocation; it's an adventure waiting to unfold. You're trading Seattle's iconic Space Needle and bustling tech scene for Portland's celebrated food carts, verdant parks, and famously eclectic vibe. Ensuring this transition is as smooth as possible is crucial, which is why hiring trusted and reliable professional movers, like our team at Great Guys Moving, is essential for this long-distance move.
Best Seattle to Portland Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Moves & More | 9.55 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | 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 |
| People Movers | 9.16 | NR | Authorized For Property | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Seattle guide.
5 Best Seattle to Portland Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
About Seattle Moves & More
Based in Seattle, Seattle Moves & More is a licensed, insured, and premier moving company in Seattle, WA, known for its exceptional services...Read More >>
Services
- Residential & Commercial Moving
- Long-Distance Relocation
- Furniture Packing and Unpacking
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 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.
Seattle vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can feel like navigating a maze, especially when it's from one city to another. To ease your transition, we've created a guide that compares the local neighborhoods between Seattle, WA & Portland, OR . By mapping the characteristics of popular areas in Seattle to their counterparts in Portland, we hope to help you find a neighborhood that feels like home before you even get there.
| Seattle | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| Belltown | Pearl District | Trendy, artsy vibe |
| Capitol Hill | Alberta Arts District | Vibrant nightlife, diverse community |
| Queen Anne | Nob Hill | Historic charm, walkable streets |
| Ballard | Mississippi District | Blend of old & new, maritime history |
| Greenwood | Hawthorne | Bohemian atmosphere, eclectic shops |
| West Seattle | Sellwood-Moreland | Family-friendly, with waterfront activities |
| Fremont | Division Street | Funky, creative spirit |
| South Lake Union | South Waterfront | Innovative, with a focus on sustainability |
| Wallingford | Irvington | Quiet, with a mix of historic homes and new developments |
| Pioneer Square | Old Town Chinatown | Rich in history with a vibrant arts scene |
In exploring these comparisons, it becomes clear how certain neighborhoods mirror the vibe and community of one another across these two cities. For example, the artsy and trendy atmosphere found in Seattle's Belltown is paralleled in Portland's Pearl District, famous for its art galleries, upscale boutiques, and stylish eateries such as Andina Restaurant. Meanwhile, if the historic charm and leafy streets of Queen Anne have captured your heart in Seattle, you'll find a kindred spirit in Portland's Nob Hill, where Victorian architecture lines the walkable avenues, hosting quaint cafes like Joan's. Moreover, the Ballard neighborhood, with its rich maritime history and modern breweries, matches Portland's Mississippi District, where old homes turn into cozy bars like Mississippi Studios that host live music, echoing Ballard's vibrant community spaces.
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
Ready to start your move?
Pros and Cons of Moving from Seattle to Portland
Moving from one city to another is a significant life decision that warrants a comprehensive understanding of what you're leaving behind and what awaits you. This guide aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad aspects of relocating from Seattle, WA to Portland, OR, helping you make a well-informed decision. By comparing the pros and cons of each city, you'll gain insights into how your life might change for the better or for worse.
Seattle, WA- Higher cost of living
- Traffic congestion
- Less public art
Portland, OR- More affordable
- Less traffic
- Rich art scene
Portland, OR- Smaller tech sector
- Less diverse cuisine
- Smaller parks
Seattle, WA- Vibrant tech scene
- Seafood cuisine
- Vast green spaces
Moving to Portland can feel like a breath of fresh air, especially with its more affordable living costs compared to Seattle. Residents enjoy its rich art scene, frequenting galleries and outdoor installations across the city. Portland's Alberta Arts District, for example, is a hub for creatives and houses numerous galleries and boutiques. Despite the easier traffic situation, newcomers might miss Seattle's vibrant tech scene and its widespread green spaces like the sprawling Discovery Park. However, Portland makes up for it with its own beautiful parks such as the Washington Park, offering various attractions including the Portland Japanese Garden. While the culinary scene is more niche, food enthusiasts can still find gems around the city, such as at the Pine Street Market, showcasing Portland's burgeoning food scene.
Seattle vs. Portland Food Guide
When considering a move, food is not just about sustenance—it's a slice of the local culture and lifestyle. In this guide, we've crafted a comparison focused on the culinary scene to help you get a taste of what awaits. This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Seattle & Portland, two vibrant cities with unique flavors and dining experiences. Whether you're a foodie or just curious, this comparison will give you an idea of the culinary adventures you can expect in your new home.
| Seattle | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Salmon | Donuts |
| Most popular meat dish | Teriyaki | Pork Belly |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Food Cart Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Pho | Vegan BBQ |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Seattle, the rich flavors of the Pacific Northwest shine through dishes like salmon and teriyaki, with neighborhoods like Capitol Hill and Ballard offering an eclectic range of dining experiences. In contrast, Portland celebrates its culinary diversity through a robust food cart culture, with areas such as the Alberta Arts District and Mississippi Avenue teeming with vibrant food scenes. The iconic donut shops and innovative vegan BBQ options in Portland epitomize the city's creative and inclusive food ethos. Both cities boast a high degree of health consciousness, but Portland edges out a bit more with its array of vegan offerings and the prominence of its food truck culture, making it a paradise for food lovers seeking variety and innovation.
Seattle vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Finding those special places to eat can turn a new city into home. This restaurant comparison between Seattle, WA, and Portland, OR, is designed to help you uncover your new go-to spots, guided by your existing favorites. From high-end dining to casual bites, get ready to explore the culinary landscapes of these two vibrant cities.
| Seattle | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| Canlis | Le Pigeon | Creative, upscale dining experiences |
| The Pink Door | Nostrana | Cozy Italian with a memorable ambiance |
| Pike Place Chowder | Portland Chowder | A haven for chowder lovers |
| Matt's in the Market | Tusk | Locally sourced, innovative dishes |
| Ray's Boathouse | Jake's Famous Crawfish | Historical seafood dining |
| Paseo | Bunk Sandwiches | For a cult-favorite sandwich fix |
| Mamnoon | Nicholas Restaurant | Authentic Middle Eastern eats |
| The Walrus and the Carpenter | Ox | Prized for innovative meat dishes |
| Terra Plata | Departure | Modern, global cuisine with a view |
| Salumi | Olympia Provisions | Renowned for artisanal charcuterie |
Discovering your new favorite spot in Portland might start with a visit to Le Pigeon, where the innovative spirit and attention to culinary excellence draw parallels to Seattle's Canlis. For those who cherish the lively Italian vibes and sumptuous pasta of The Pink Door in Seattle, a night out at Nostrana in Portland promises a similar blend of cozy ambiance and exceptional Italian dishes. Meanwhile, seafood enthusiasts accustomed to the fresh catches at Ray's Boathouse may find a new haunt at Jake's Famous Crawfish, a historic spot that's been delighting with its surf offerings for over a century. These transitions prove that while you may be changing your address, your culinary adventures will continue to thrive, offering comfort, excitement, and flavors that echo your beloved Seattle haunts.
Ready to start your move?
Seattle vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
When planning a move, comparing the real estate landscapes between your current city and future home is crucial for a smooth transition. This comparison will focus on how Seattle, WA and Portland, OR stack up in terms of housing costs, architecture, and lifestyle . Understanding these differences can greatly affect your decision and preparation process.
| Comparison | Seattle | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Craftsman, Contemporary | Bungalow, Craftsman |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Views of Puget Sound, Green Building | Close to nature, Eco-friendly options |
Both Seattle and Portland offer unique living experiences, highlighted by their distinct architecture styles and commitment to green living. In Seattle, homes often boast views of Puget Sound and a strong focus on contemporary design, while Portland's real estate scene is dotted with eco-friendly bungalows nestled close to nature. This embrace of the outdoors is also reflected in Portland's higher bikeability score, making it a potentially better fit if cycling is a big part of your lifestyle. However, urbanites might prefer Seattle's slightly more bustling urban atmosphere, coupled with its higher walkability score. These differences highlight the importance of aligning your housing choice with your personal lifestyle and preferences.
Seattle vs. Portland Weather Considerations
Relocating? Understanding how the weather varies is crucial. This comparison will clue you in on what to expect weather-wise, helping you adapt more smoothly. Seattle and Portland share similar climatic traits, but specific differences in weather patterns and environmental factors can impact your daily life and activities.
Seattle, WA
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Seattle, WA
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Seattle, WA
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Seattle | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Earthquakes, Volcanoes | Earthquakes, Floods |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
While Seattle and Portland experience similar weather patterns, differences in sunshine days and humidity levels might affect your comfort and outdoor activities. Portland enjoys slightly warmer summers and less humidity, potentially making summer outdoor activities more favorable. However, Portland also experiences slightly less sunshine annually, which might affect your mood or vitamin D intake. Both cities share common seasonal allergies and have moderate air quality, with unique natural disaster risks. Familiarizing yourself with these environmental factors can help you prepare for your move.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Seattle to Portland
When considering a move from Seattle, WA to Portland, OR, it's crucial to grasp how the cost of living, tax rates, and the economic environment in each city will impact your finances. This comparison will help you understand what to expect financially, making your transition smoother.
| Comparison | Seattle | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $110,781 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 121.4 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | 0 | 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 0.99 | 1.07 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 10.1 | 0 (Oregon has no sales tax) |
| Top 3 Industries | Technology, Aerospace, Retail | Technology, Manufacturing, Healthcare |
| Affluence | High | Moderate |
| Poverty | Moderate | Moderate |
| Homelessness | Significant | Significant |
Seattle and Portland both offer vibrant economies and rich cultural experiences, but the financial implications of living in each are notably different. Seattle's average household income is higher, which aligns with its significantly higher cost of living index. Oregon's state income tax presents a stark contrast to Washington's lack thereof, potentially affecting your take-home pay. On the positive side, Oregon's absence of sales tax can offer some relief to your budget, especially in daily expenses and large purchases. Considering these factors will be vital in planning your finances post-move.
Seattle vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
As you consider moving from Seattle, WA, to Portland, OR, it's important to understand the communities you'll be joining. This quick comparison provides an at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents between Seattle & Portland , helping you to gauge how well you might fit in with your new neighbors.
| Seattle | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal/Democratic | Liberal/Democratic |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, strong environmental focus | Progressive with a strong emphasis on bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure |
| Religion | Less religious overall, with a variety of faith communities | Largely secular, but diverse religious communities exist including Buddhist, Jewish, and Christian groups |
Both Seattle and Portland present a liberal and progressive political climate that values environmentalism, albeit with distinct local policies shining through. In Seattle, you'll find a community keen on innovative progressive policies, especially those that protect the environment. Portland, while sharing similar values, places an immense emphasis on creating and maintaining an extensive network dedicated to bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, reflecting its residents' strong commitment to sustainable living practices. Despite both cities being less religious compared to other parts of the United States, you'll encounter a mosaic of faith communities in both, offering diverse opportunities for spiritual connection and community engagement.
Seattle vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Seattle, WA, to Portland, OR, you'll want to better understand the differences in traffic and transportation options between these two Pacific Northwest cities. This comparison aims to give you insights into what your daily commute and traffic experience might be like.
| Comparison | Seattle | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 27 | 24 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without a car? | Possible, but challenging | Yes, more feasible |
In comparing Seattle and Portland regarding daily commutes and transportation, one stark contrast is the slightly longer average commute time in Seattle. However, the main difference lies in the ease of living without a personal vehicle. Portland edges out slightly higher in public transit availability, with the TriMet system providing extensive bus, light rail, and commuter rail options. Conversely, although Seattle's public transport system, including Sound Transit and King County Metro, is robust, the city's hilly topography and waterways can make certain commutes more challenging without a car. Overall, while both cities support a relatively car-free lifestyle, Portland might offer a slightly smoother transition for those used to relying on public transit.
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