Best Madison to Portland Movers and Practical Moving Guide
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Moving from Madison, the heart of Dairyland, to Portland, the City of Roses, marks an exciting phase in your life, full of new adventures and opportunities. You'll be swapping the Midwestern charm and cheese for Pacific Northwest vibes and endless coffee shops, stepping into a diverse landscape both culturally and geographically. Understanding the importance of this transition, we emphasize the need for trusted and reliable professional movers to ensure your journey from Madison to Portland is smooth and stress-free.
Best Madison to Portland Moving Companies
| Company Name | Rating  | BBB Rating | License | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A Smooth Move, LLC | 9.59 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Madison Smooth Moves | 9.56 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc. | 9.31 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
| Northwest Grace Moving | 9.30 | A+ | Authorized For HHG | Contact |
| All Service Moving | 9.27 | A+ | Authorized For Property, HHG | Contact |
(800) 787-5428
Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Madison guide.
5 Best Madison to Portland Moving Companies
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)
This listing has been claimed by A Smooth Move, LLCAbout A Smooth Move, LLC
A Smooth Move is a family-owned and operated moving company that serves Wisconsin and beyond. It’s proud of its reputation as one of the mos...Read More >>
Services
- Full-Service Moves
- Packing, Loading, Delivering, Unloading, Unpacking
- Business and Residential Relocation Services
About Madison Smooth Moves
Founded in 2018, Madison Smooth Moves operates based on the principles of affordability, efficiency, preparation, and satisfaction. As a loc...Read More >>
Services
- Residential Moves
- Local Moves
- Long-distance Moves
About Gorilla Movers Of Wisconsin Inc.
As a locally owned and operated moving company, Gorilla Movers has over 20 years of experience performing high-quality residential and comme...Read More >>
Services
- Residential moves
- Commercial moves
- Local/statewide 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
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.
Madison vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving across the country can be daunting, especially when you're not familiar with your new city. To ease this transition, we've created a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Madison, WI & Portland, OR. This guide identifies neighborhoods in Madison and their most similar counterparts in Portland, helping you find a new home that feels familiar.
| Madison | Portland | How They're Similar |
|---|---|---|
| State Street | Pearl District | Vibrant shopping & arts |
| Capitol Hill | Northwest District | Historic with a political vibe |
| Willy Street | Alberta Arts District | Eclectic and artsy |
| Maple Bluff | Lake Oswego | Affluent and scenic views |
| Shorewood Hills | Dunthorpe | Exclusive residential area |
| Nakoma League | Alameda | Quiet, tree-filled neighborhoods |
| Monroe Street | Mississippi Avenue | Hipster vibes with unique boutiques |
| Atwood | Hawthorne | Bohemian atmosphere with vintage shops |
| Schenk-Atwood | Sellwood-Moreland | Blend of old & new with a family-friendly atmosphere |
| Tenney-Lapham | Buckman | Blend of residential & commercial with a creative flair |
For those drawn to the bustling arts scene and eclectic shops of Willy Street in Madison, the Alberta Arts District in Portland offers a similarly vibrant atmosphere with a rich tapestry of galleries, eateries like Salt & Straw for unique ice cream flavors, and local crafts at the Alberta Street Fair. If the serene and prestigious vibe of Maple Bluff is what you're used to, you'll find the upscale Lake Oswego area a perfect match in Portland, with its stunning lakeside properties and prestigious country clubs like the Lake Oswego Golf Course. And for those who love Monroe Street's eclectic mix of shops and cafes, Mississippi Avenue in Portland will feel like home with its hipster feel, offering spots like Mississippi Pizza Pub for a slice of the local scene.
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 Madison to Portland
Moving from Madison, WI to Portland, OR presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of this relocation. By understanding the cons of Madison and the improved circumstances in Portland as well as what you'll miss about Madison compared to what might be less appealing in Portland, you can make a more informed decision.
Madison, WI- Cold winters
- Smaller city
- Fewer cultural events
- Less diverse cuisine
- Fewer parks
Portland, OR- Milder winters
- Larger metropolitan area
- More cultural events
- Broader food variety
- More green spaces
Portland, OR- Higher cost of living
- Can feel overwhelming
- More rainy days
- Heavier traffic
- Urban-centric
Madison, WI- Lower cost of living
- Strong community feel
- More sunshine
- Less traffic
- Accessible nature
Moving to Portland, you'll enjoy the milder winters and the city's vibrant cultural scene compared to Madison. Portland's culinary scene is renowned, with places like Pok Pok offering some of the best Thai food outside of Thailand, and the annual Feast Portland festival celebrating food from all over the world. The abundance of green spaces like Washington Park and Forest Park provide ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. However, be prepared for Portland's higher cost of living and the frequent rainy days which might take some getting used to after the more predictable weather and lower living expenses in Madison.
Madison vs. Portland Food Guide
Recognizing the pivotal role food plays in local culture and the overall living experience, this guide embarks on a comparison of the local cuisine between Madison & Portland . By contrasting the culinary scenes of these vibrant cities, you'll gain insight into what flavors and experiences await in your new home.
| Madison | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Most iconic local food item | Cheese Curds | Doughnuts |
| Most popular meat dish | Bratwurst | Pork Belly |
| Most popular street food item | Hot Dogs | Street Tacos |
| Most popular vegan food | Tempeh Reuben | Jackfruit Tacos |
| Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city |
|
|
| Fitness/Health Conscientiousness | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 | 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪💪 |
| Abundance of Food Trucks | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 | 🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚🚚 |
| Foodie Scene | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 | 🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴🍴 |
| Vegan Friendly | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 | 🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱🌱 |
In Portland, the food scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with innovative and diverse culinary ventures. The city's streets boast an array of food trucks offering everything from street tacos to gourmet delights, found aplenty in neighborhoods like Alberta Arts District and Mississippi Avenue. Among its iconic eateries, Voodoo Doughnut provides an unforgettably quirky doughnut experience, while Pok Pok delivers authentic Thai cuisine that has locals and visitors alike lining up. Portland's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its wide range of vegan options, making it a haven for foodies of every dietary preference.
Madison vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Finding comfort in a new city often begins with discovering great places to eat. This restaurant comparison between Madison, WI, and Portland, OR, aims to ease your transition by guiding you towards your next favorite dining spots. Let’s make Portland feel like home with a culinary link to Madison.
| Madison | Portland | What You'll Love |
|---|---|---|
| L'Etoile | Le Pigeon | Offers a similarly inventive and locally sourced fine dining experience. |
| Graze | Tasty n Daughters | Known for a creative, farm-to-table approach similar to Graze. |
| Ian's Pizza | Scottie's Pizza Parlor | Both are beloved for their unique takes on classic pizzas. |
| A Pig In A Fur Coat | Toro Bravo | Spanish-inspired small plates with a gourmet twist, much like A Pig In A Fur Coat. |
| The Old Fashioned | Screen Door | Iconic for their comfort food and focus on regional ingredients. |
| Sardine | Cafe Nell | French-inspired bistro dining offering a similar lakeside dining atmosphere. |
| Mickies Dairy Bar | Pine State Biscuits | Both offer a divey, nostalgic feel with hearty, American breakfasts. |
| Taqueria Guadalajara | Stella Taco | A go-to for authentic Mexican fare and a casual, colorful ambience. |
| Sal's Tomato Pies | Apizza Scholls | High-quality ingredients and a passion for pizza craftsmanship. |
| Marigold Kitchen | Mother's Bistro & Bar | Both offer a cozy setting for a hearty, made-from-scratch breakfast or brunch. |
When you find yourself missing Madison's cozy and vibrant dining scenes, Portland's rich culinary landscape stands ready to welcome you. At places like Le Pigeon and Toro Bravo, you'll discover a blend of innovation and homage to local flavors that might just remind you of back home at L'Etoile or A Pig In A Fur Coat. Meanwhile, comfort food seekers will feel right at home transitioning from The Old Fashioned to Screen Door, where regional ingredients shine in every dish. Whether it's the artisanal pizza from Apizza Scholls echoing Madison's creative pie scenes, or the carefully crafted breakfasts at Mother's Bistro & Bar that mirror Marigold Kitchen's charm, you're bound to find new favorites that celebrate both the familiar and the excitingly new aspects of Portland's dining experience.
Ready to start your move?
Madison vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
Real estate is a pivotal concern when planning a move. Understanding how Madison, WI and Portland, OR compare in terms of housing will support you in making an informed decision. This comparison takes into account cost, architectural styles, walkability, and more to give you a clearer picture.
| Comparison | Madison | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Architecture Style | Prairie and Craftsman | Craftsman and Old Portland |
| Walkability | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 | 👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟👟 |
| Bikeability | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 | 🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲🚲 |
| Urban Lifestyle | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ | 🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️🏛️ |
| Most popular items mentioned in real estate listing | Proximity to lakes, State Capitol | Eco-friendly features, proximity to parks |
When considering Madison versus Portland for your move, the cost of living in terms of real estate is a significant factor. Portland’s higher median home price reflects its growing popularity and the demand for housing in the area. However, both cities boast unique architectural styles that cater to varied tastes—Madison with its Prairie and Craftsman homes, and Portland with its distinctive Craftsman and Old Portland styles. Walkability and bikeability scores also play into the urban lifestyle each city offers, with Madison scoring slightly higher in bike-friendliness, a testament to its compact, accessible urban design. Portland, on the other hand, offers a more pronounced urban lifestyle, highlighted by its listings that frequently boast eco-friendly features and access to expansive green spaces.
Madison vs. Portland Weather Considerations
Moving from one location to another requires adapting to new weather conditions. Understanding how the climate in Madison, WI contrasts with Portland, OR can greatly influence your preparation for relocation. This comparison highlights key weather differences to anticipate, ensuring a smoother transition.
Madison, WI
Portland, OR
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Madison, WI
Portland, OR
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Madison, WI
Portland, OR
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Madison, WI
Portland, OR
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
| Comparison | Madison | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Air Quality | Good | Moderate |
| Natural Disasters | Snowstorms, Tornadoes | Earthquakes, Flooding |
| Days of Sunshine per Year | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ | ☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ |
| Avg. UV Index | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ | 🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️🕶️ |
| Avg. Annual Humidity | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 | 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦 |
Madison experiences more dramatic seasonal changes with colder winters and slightly warmer summers compared to Portland's milder, wetter climate. While Madison enjoys more sunny days annually, Portland's higher annual rainfall contributes to its lush, green landscape year-round. Additionally, Madison's winter months are characterized by substantial snowfall, whereas Portland sees very little, reflecting stark differences in winter experiences. Moving into Portland from Madison, be prepared for more rain and less sunshine but appreciate milder winters and the absence of extreme cold.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Madison to Portland
Moving between cities can significantly impact your finances. This comparison aims to elucidate the monetary aspects of relocating from Madison, WI to Portland, OR. Understanding differences in income, taxes, and living costs will better prepare you for the transition.
| Comparison | Madison | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Household Income | $67,270 | $79,057 |
| Cost of Living Index | 95.65 | 111.3 |
| State Income Tax | Up to 7.65 | Up to 9.9 |
| Avg. Property Tax | 1.73 | 0.91 |
| Avg. Sales Tax | 5.5 | 0 |
| Top 3 Industries | Healthcare, Manufacturing, Education | Technology, Apparel, Manufacturing |
| Affluence | Modestly affluent | Varied, with pockets of high affluence |
| Poverty | Lower than national average | Higher than national average |
| Homelessness | Present but less visible | Significantly noticeable |
When moving from Madison to Portland, you'll find the average household income is slightly higher in Portland, which may help with the cost of living that is also notably higher. One of the most striking differences is the absence of sales tax in Oregon, which can be a considerable saving on everyday purchases despite higher income taxes. The property tax rate is significantly lower in Portland, but home prices tend to be higher due to demand and the city's growth. Understanding these differences can help you budget effectively for your move and adapt to your new city's economic climate.
Madison vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
This brief overview offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot focused on the politics between Madison & Portland , along with the religious landscape that defines the character of each city. By comparing these aspects, you can better understand the cultural fabric of where you're moving from and to.
| Madison | Portland | |
|---|---|---|
| Political Make-up | Liberal | Liberal |
| Local Politics | Progressive policies, strong environmental focus | Progressive politics, emphasis on sustainability and equity |
| Religion | Variety with a notable non-religious contingent | Diverse, with a significant non-religious population |
Both Madison and Portland share a liberal political orientation, aligning on many national issues with progressive mindsets. This shared alignment fosters vibrant, active communities focused on sustainability, equality, and social justice. However, each city has its unique approach and focus within the liberal spectrum, influenced by local cultures and histories. Madison is known for its environmental initiatives and a strong sense of community activism. In contrast, Portland places a strong emphasis on sustainability and social equity, with various local actions reflecting these values. Additionally, both cities host diverse religious and non-religious communities, providing an inclusive atmosphere for newcomers regardless of their beliefs. Understanding these dynamics can help ease your transition and integration into your new home.
Madison vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Embarking on a move from Madison, WI to Portland, OR requires not just physical preparation but a mental adjustment, especially when it comes to daily commutes and traffic. This guide aims to compare the traffic and transportation options between Madison & Portland, helping you better understand what to expect in your new city.
| Comparison | Madison | Portland |
|---|---|---|
| Avg Commute Time (in minutes) | 22 | 26 |
| Traffic Congestion | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 | 🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦🚦 |
| Availability of Public Transit | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 | 🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇🚇 |
| Can you get by without car? | Partially | Yes |
While both cities offer unique challenges and advantages in terms of commute, Portland tends to have slightly higher traffic congestion likely due to its larger population and denser urban layout. However, the city compensates with a more robust public transit system, making it feasible to live without a car. On the other hand, Madison’s commute times are generally lower, and while the city does have public transit options, they might not be as comprehensive or convenient as those in Portland. Knowing this, you might find that adapting to Portland's commute will involve more planning around public transit schedules, but it could also mean a less car-dependent lifestyle.
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