Best Salinas to Portland Movers + Moving Guide
Want help with the heavy lifting?
If you're moving from Salinas to Portland and need first-hand information you can trust to make this 722 mile move from California to Oregon go smoothly, Great Guys Moving is here to help. We've analyzed 23 Salinas to Portland moving companies and more than 20,000 movers nationwide to provide up-to-date and data-driven information about: which moving company to hire (our top recommendation is Northwest Grace Moving), how much the move costs (approximately $1,500 - $5,500 depending on how much stuff you have), and what it will be like living in Salinas compared to Portland. With a move this big, you want big data on your side and Great Guys Moving is your trusted ally to help you sift through the noise to make informed moving decisions.

Best Salinas to Portland Moving Companies
Rank | Company | Affordability Index | License | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Northwest Grace Moving | 9.31 | 9.28 | Authorized For HHG |
2 | All Service Moving | 9.27 | 8.91 | Authorized For Property, HHG |
3 | Mod Movers | 8.81 | 8.1 | Authorized For HHG |
4 | Poulos Moving Systems | 8.37 | 8.48 | Authorized For HHG |
5 | Cardinale Moving & Storage | 7.62 | 7.06 | Authorized For HHG |
How Much Does it Cost to Move from Salinas to Portland?
Moving a 1 bedroom apartment 722 miles from Salinas, CA to Portland, OR will cost on average $2,395 to hire full service movers. A 3 bedroom Salinas to Portland move is roughly $5,745. See the chart below for a detailed breakdown by type of move and home size. Pricing will vary based upon the exact locations of pickup and dropoff as well as several other factors. The most important pricing component that is often overlooked is how far away the move date is. The earlier you can reserve movers, the better your pricing and options will be.
Home Size | Moving Cost | Volume of Packed Items (ft³) | $/ft³ |
---|---|---|---|
Studio | $1,612 | 300 ft³ | $5.37 |
1 Bedroom | $2,395 | 450 ft³ | $5.32 |
2 Bedrooms | $3,955 | 750 ft³ | $5.27 |
3 Bedrooms | $5,745 | 1100 ft³ | $5.22 |
4 Bedrooms | $8,276 | 1600 ft³ | $5.17 |
5+ Bedrooms | $9,221 | 1800 ft³ | $5.12 |


Moving in the opposite direction? Here is our moving from Portland to Salinas guide.
Compare the 5 Best Salinas to Portland Movers
These are the top recommended movers based on our unbiased & regularly updated ranking algorithm (NOT paid promotions)

Northwest Grace Moving
19764 Cypresswood St
Oregon City, OR, 97045
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...
Services
- Local Moving
- Long Distance Moving
- Senior Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1999959 / 755213 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 3 |
Registered Drivers | 3 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2023) |

All Service Moving

66 SE Morrison St
Portland, OR, 97214
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...
Services
- Residential Moving
- Commercial Moving
- Long Distance Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 1863079 / 722865 Authorized For Property, HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 80 |
Registered Drivers | 113 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 1,186,786 (2022) |

Mod Movers
1118 Airport Way STE 100
Monterey, CA, 93940
About Mod Movers
Mod Movers is one of the top-rated moving companies in Northern California. This locally-owned business in Monterey operates throughout the Golden...
Services
- Local Movers
- Long Distance Movers
- Interstate Movers
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2983026 / 1294330 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 4 |
Registered Drivers | 4 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 20,000 (2023) |

Poulos Moving Systems
222 Commission St
Salinas, CA, 93901
About Poulos Moving Systems
A locally owned and operated moving company that started in 2009, Poulos Moving Systems is proud to continue providing reliable and...
Services
- Local Moves
- Office Moves
- Intrastate Moving
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 2618126 / 1016606 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 9 |
Registered Drivers | 6 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 39,036 (2022) |

Cardinale Moving & Storage
11360 Commercial Pkwy
Castroville, CA, 95012
About Cardinale Moving & Storage
Cardinale Moving & Storage is owned and operated by the Cardinale family who has lived on the Monterey peninsula for well...
Services
- Local moves
- Moves within California
- Interstate moves
Interstate Moving License
USDOT / MC Status Entity Type | 45193 / 138022 Authorized For HHG Carrier |
Registered Trucks/Vans | 22 |
Registered Drivers | 20 |
Total Annual Miles Moved | 50,000 (2022) |

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.
Salinas vs. Portland Neighborhood Comparison
Moving can be daunting, especially when you're heading to a new city. To ease this transition, we've crafted a comparison of the local neighborhoods between Salinas, CA & Portland, OR . Using familiar neighborhoods from Salinas as a baseline, we help you find similar areas in Portland, making your move a little less unknown.
Salinas | Portland | How They're Similar |
---|---|---|
South Salinas | Laurelhurst | Family-friendly, with a historic vibe |
North Salinas | St. Johns | Diverse, community-oriented |
Creekbridge | Eastmoreland | Upscale, with green spaces |
Maple Park | Irvington | Historic homes, quiet streets |
Monterey Park | Alameda | Elevated location, stunning views |
South Wilson | Mount Tabor | Nature-centric, with an urban feel |
Los Olivos | Alphabet District | Eclectic, dense with amenities |
Harding/Laurelwood | Buckman | Artsy, with an energetic nightlife |
Harrod | Richmond | Residential, with a mix of everything |
University Park | Sellwood-Moreland | Quaint, with antique shops |
If you're drawn to the historic charm and community feel of Maple Park in Salinas, you'll find a similar atmosphere in Portland's Irvington. With its array of historic homes and quiet, tree-lined streets, Irvington invites leisurely strolls and a deep sense of community. For those who love the nature-centric lifestyle of South Wilson, Mount Tabor in Portland offers a harmonious blend of urban living with accessible natural landscapes, perfect for those who value the balance between city life and outdoor activities. And if the eclectic and amenity-dense environment of Los Olivos is what you're looking for, Portland's Alphabet District will not disappoint, offering a vibrant array of shops, eateries, and cultural hotspots, such as Powell's City of Books, right at your doorstep.

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 Salinas to Portland
Moving to a new city is a significant life change that comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Salinas, CA to Portland, OR, helping you weigh your options carefully. Understanding both the pros and cons will better prepare you for this exciting journey.
- Higher crime rates
- Less cultural events
- Smaller community
- Warmer climate
- Lower crime rates
- More cultural diversity
- Larger, vibrant community
- Cooler, varied climate
- Less local agriculture
- Higher living costs
- More rainfall
- Can feel overwhelming
- Access to fresh produce
- More affordable housing
- Warmer climate
- Close-knit community
Moving from Salinas to Portland brings a mix of change, from swapping the sunny, warm weather for Portland's cooler, rainier climate, which you might find refreshing or challenging, depending on your preferences. Portland is well-known for its rich cultural scene, from the Portland Art Museum to a variety of music and food festivals year-round, offering something for everyone's tastes. You'll find that neighborhood parks like Forest Park and the iconic Powell's City of Books provide unique and enriching experiences that Salinas may not offer. Restaurants like Andina in the Pearl District or Pok Pok offer a taste of global cuisine right at your doorstep. However, you may find the higher cost of living and the adjustment to a more populous city challenging, but the opportunities and diverse community in Portland could make this move a rewarding venture.
Salinas vs. Portland Food Guide
Understanding the vibrant culinary scene is essential when relocating, as food is a significant aspect of local culture and daily life. To aid in your transition, we've prepared a comparison of the local cuisine between Salinas & Portland . This will give you a taste of what to expect in your new home, highlighting differences and perhaps new favorites to discover.
- Patria
- Salinas City BBQ
- Gino's Fine Italian Food
- Pok Pok
- Le Pigeon
- Salt & Straw
Upon reaching Portland, you'll immediately notice its thriving food scene that boldly outshines many cities across the country. Iconic restaurants like Pok Pok and Le Pigeon push the boundaries of traditional flavors, offering unique dishes that reflect Portland's eclectic taste. Neighborhoods such as the Pearl District and Alberta Street are synonymous with culinary adventure, where food carts and vegan options abound. The city's high health conscientiousness rating is evident through its numerous vegan restaurants and health food stores, making Portland a paradise for food lovers with any dietary preference.
Salinas vs. Portland Restaurant Comparison
Making a new city feel like home starts with finding your go-to spots for a comforting meal or exciting culinary adventure. This comparison chart is aimed at helping you transition from Salinas to Portland by spotlighting comparable top restaurants in each city, making your move and dining explorations seamless and satisfying. Whether you're craving decadent dinners or casual bites, this guide will connect you with your new local favorites.
Salinas | Portland | What You'll Love |
---|---|---|
Gino's Fine Italian Food | Grassa | Fresh, handmade pastas with unique twists |
Portobello's | Farm Spirit | Seasonal and sustainable dishes with a focus on vegetables |
Eagle Restaurant | Pok Pok | Authentic Southeast Asian street food style |
Patria | Andina | Modern Peruvian cuisine that honors traditional roots |
The Grower's Pub | Huber’s Café | Classic American fare with historic surroundings |
Salinas City BBQ | Matt’s BBQ | Texas-style barbecue known for brisket and ribs |
La Casa Del Sazon | Guero | A vibrant selection of tortas and Mexican dishes |
Giorgio's Italian Food & Pizzeria | Apizza Scholls | High-quality, artisanal pizzas with unique toppings |
Monterey Coast Brewing | Breakside Brewery | Widely celebrated for their innovative and diverse beers |
Taqueria El Tapatio | Taqueria Nueve | Celebrated for authentic and creative Mexican cuisine |
Exploring Portland's dining scene will reveal delightful parallels to your favorite Salinas eateries. If you cherished the handmade pastas and cozy ambiance at Gino's Fine Italian Food, you’ll adore Grassa’s inventive approach to pasta dishes. Equally, fans of La Casa Del Sazon’s vibrant Mexican flavors in Salinas will find a new home at Guero in Portland, where tortas take center stage alongside an array of Mexican-inspired dishes. For those who relished the smoky, tender moments at Salinas City BBQ, Matt’s BBQ in Portland promises to reignite those pleasures with its Texas-style barbecue. Through these comparisons, your culinary journey from Salinas to Portland promises both comfort and discovery.

Ready to start your move?
Salinas vs. Portland Real Estate & Living Facts
When embarking on a move, comparing the real estate aspects of your current city to your potential new home is crucial. This comparison between Salinas, CA, and Portland, OR, provides vital insights into housing costs, stylistic differences, and lifestyle. Understanding these differences will ensure you make an informed decision that aligns with your priorities.
In choosing between Salinas and Portland, you'll find significant differences in housing costs, with Portland offering a lower median home price and monthly rent. Portland's architecture leans towards charming Craftsman and Victorian styles, contributing to its higher walkability and bikeability scores, reflecting a more urban lifestyle. Moreover, Portland's real estate listings often highlight eco-friendly features and access to extensive public transit systems, contrasting with Salinas's emphasis on spacious backyards and its agricultural surroundings. These distinctions underscore the unique living experiences each city offers, mirroring their distinct urban and cultural landscapes.

Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Portland, OR
1. Alberta Arts District : You'll love the abundance of pet-friendly cafes and shops, plus the proximity to several parks and dog-friendly trails.
2. Sellwood-Moreland : This neighborhood offers you easy access to numerous dog parks and a strong community vibe that welcomes pets.
3. Pearl District : As one of the most walkable areas in Portland, Pearl District provides you with pet-friendly apartments and quick routes to off-leash parks.
Salinas vs. Portland Weather Considerations
When planning a move from one city to another, understanding how the weather compares is crucial for your adaptation and comfort. This comparison between Salinas, CA, and Portland, OR, highlights the key weather differences you can expect, ensuring you're well-prepared for your new environment.
Average Summer High/Low (°F)
Average Winter High/Low (°F)
Annual Rainfall (Inches)
Annual Snowfall (Inches)
Moving from Salinas to Portland means adapting to cooler winter temperatures and more rainy days, given Portland's significant higher annual rainfall. You'll experience less sunshine in Portland but might find the summers pleasantly warmer. Air quality varies between the two, with Salinas generally enjoying cleaner air. Both cities deal with natural disasters, but the types may differ, necessitating different preparation. Understanding these differences will help you acclimate faster to your new home in Portland.
Ready to start your move?
Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Salinas to Portland
When considering a move from one city to another, it's crucial to get a grasp on how the financial aspects stack up. This comparison will shed light on the economic differences between Salinas and Portland, focusing on areas like income, taxes, and the cost of living. Understanding these variations can help you prepare financially for your relocation.
Moving from Salinas to Portland, you'll encounter some financial changes. Although the average household income is slightly higher in Portland, Oregon's state income tax is also slightly higher than California's. Despite this, Portland's cost of living index is lower, which may balance the tax difference. Both cities have no sales tax, which is a financial bonus. The industries powering each city's economy differ, with Portland having a strong tech sector. Both Salinas and Portland face challenges with homelessness, but the overall affluence levels and poverty rates suggest a slight economic advantage for residents moving to Portland.
Salinas vs. Portland Political & Religious Comparison
This comparison provides a quick, at-a-glance snapshot focusing on the political and religious makeup of the residents between Salinas & Portland. Moving from one city to another can bring about a culture shift, and understanding these aspects can ease the transition.
In both Salinas and Portland, the political landscape leans Democratic, but with Portland having a reputation for being more strongly aligned with progressive and environmental causes, you may find the local political discussions and priorities differing significantly. For instance, while Salinas' politics often revolve around agricultural issues, reflecting its role in the Salad Bowl of America, Portland's politics are more likely to focus on urban sustainability and green initiatives. On the religious front, Salinas has a more pronounced presence of Catholic and Protestant communities, typical for many areas of California. In contrast, Portland stands out for its higher percentage of residents identifying as non-religious, fostering a more diversified spiritual landscape that might include everything from traditional religions to more eclectic beliefs. Understanding these nuances can help you anticipate the cultural shift as you move.
Salinas vs. Portland Traffic and Public Transit Considerations
Moving from Salinas, CA to Portland, OR can bring about significant changes, especially when it comes to your daily commute and traffic situations. This comparison between Salinas & Portland is designed to help you better understand what to expect in terms of traffic and transportation options
When moving from Salinas to Portland, you'll notice that the average commute time is slightly longer in Portland, reflecting its denser urban environment and more robust public transportation options. Portland's higher score in traffic congestion can be attributed to its more compact city layout and heavier reliance on transit during peak hours. However, the higher availability of public transit in Portland — with services like TriMet, including buses and light rail — makes getting around without a car much more feasible than in Salinas. The shift might be challenging at first, especially if you're used to relying on a personal vehicle, but Portland's infrastructure supports a more diverse range of commuting options.



Additional Resources
Salinas Moving Services
Popular Salinas to Oregon Routes
Popular Moving Resources